Blog Post

TIPS FOR FIRST TIME HOME SELLERS

Appfolio Websites • May 22, 2019
Much like buying your first home, selling it can be an intimidating process. Whether you are relocating or trying to find a property that will better accommodate your family’s needs, you probably have a lot on your mind. For most people, selling their home is also a time sensitive matter since they need to at least have an offer on it before buying their next one.

The good news is that the months of spring and summer are the best ones to list your property! With the kids out of school and the yards looking their best, most people want to move before the end of the summer. However, it is also the moment when your property will have more competition on the market, which is why you should have a strategic plan in mind.

Since internet seemingly makes everything so easy and accessible, you might be tempted to skip the realtor fee and go the For Sale By Owner (FSBO) route. As a first-time home seller, it is a risky choice. Selling your house is a time-consuming process: you will need to market the property, stage it, and be present for all the showings and appointments. It also requires an in-depth knowledge of the real estate selling procedure, of the local market, and the legal implications and obligations as a homeowner. Finally, if the buyer uses a real estate agent, he or she will usually require a closing fee anyway.



Although real estate agents charge on average 6% of the selling price, you can often recoup that money since agent listings sell on average 20 days faster and for 20% more than a FSBO listing according to a study by the National Association of Realtors. Your real estate agent can save you a tremendous amount of time by taking care of the paperwork and organizing showings. He/she also has access to marketing tools FSBO sellers don’t to show off your listing to the largest number of potential buyers. Real estate agents are seasoned negotiators and are familiar with the local market so you can get the most bang for your buck. Finally, the sellers’ agent usually split his or her fee with the buyers’ agent.

Finding a trusted real estate partner can make or break a transaction, especially for a first-time home seller. It is always a good idea to interview several real estate agents before picking one that might the right fit for you. Don’t forget to ask them some key questions such as:
  • How long have you been working as a real estate agent? Is it your full-time job?
  • Are you familiar with the area? Have you helped sell or buy houses in my neighborhood?
  • Which marketing tools do you use? How often and how do you communicate with your clients?
You can also save a significant amount of time and money by taking care of some of the steps to sell your home yourself before hiring a real estate agent. Staging and decluttering to make your home as appealing as possible is crucial. Better Homes and Gardens also recommends giving as much attention to the outside curb appeal to indoor staging: some low-cost improvements such as “sweeping the front stoop, cleaning windows, covering rocks with fresh mulch, or painting your front door a striking color” can improve your value.

Listing your home to sell can be a nerve-wracking process, but the right partner and a little elbow grease can go a long way. Spring is a great time to sell your home. Best of luck!

Share this post

By Easton Farr 16 Jun, 2023
Real estate investing can be a great way to build long-term wealth and generate passive income, but it can also be a daunting process for beginners. If you're considering real estate investing in Huntsville, AL, here are some tips and strategies to help you get started.
By Easton Farr 28 May, 2023
One of the biggest challenges that landlords face is setting the right rent price for their rental properties. Setting the rent too high can lead to long vacancy periods, while setting the rent too low can result in missed revenue opportunities. In this post, we'll explore tips for setting the right rent price and maximizing your rental income in Huntsville, AL. Do Your Research Before setting the rent price for your rental property in Huntsville, AL, it's important to do your research. Research the local market and check the rents for similar properties in your area. You can also use online rental pricing tools or consult with a local real estate agent to get a better sense of the market rates. Consider the Property's Features and Amenities The features and amenities of your rental property can also affect the rent price. Properties with updated appliances, modern finishes, and desirable amenities like a pool or gym tend to command higher rents. Additionally, consider the location and proximity to schools, shopping, and public transportation, which can also impact the rent price. Factor in Operating Expenses When setting the rent price for your rental property in Huntsville, AL, it's important to factor in the operating expenses. These include utilities, maintenance and repairs, property taxes, insurance, and property management fees. Subtracting the operating expenses from the potential rental income can help you determine the maximum rent price that you can charge. Look at Your Competitors Look at what your competitors are charging for similar properties in Huntsville, AL. If your rent price is significantly higher than theirs, you may have trouble finding tenants. If it's significantly lower, you may be missing out on potential rental income. Keep in mind that pricing may vary based on the location, features, and amenities of your property. Consult with a Property Management Company Setting the right rent price and maximizing your rental income can be a complex process. Working with a property management company in Huntsville, can help you navigate the process and ensure that your rental property is priced competitively. A property management company can provide market analysis, advise on rent price adjustments, and handle rent collection, freeing up your time and making real estate investing a more passive investment. In conclusion, setting the right rent price for your rental property in Huntsville, AL requires careful research, consideration of the property's features and amenities, and an understanding of the operating expenses. Additionally, consulting with a property management company can help you maximize your rental income and ensure that your property is priced competitively. If you're looking for expert guidance and support in managing your rental property in Huntsville, AL, contact RCPM for assistance
By Easton Farr 13 May, 2023
I want to buy a rental property... but what do I do now?
Show More
Share by: