Be accessible!
Next to pricing, accessibility is one of the key factors in real estate marketing. In busy markets such as Kissimmee, offering ease and convenience can help you win over picky buyers. Here’s why.
After talking to buyers, an agent starts searching the market for available homes that fit the client’s needs. As they go over the matches, they’re more likely to include those that are easy to show—particularly those that don’t require them to set appointments. Remember, there is a lot of competition, so agents won’t bother to chase you down when other homes are open any day.
Put a lock box. One thing you can do is put a “lock box” on your home. A lock box contains a key to your home and an only be accessed by qualified agents. A home with a lock box is usually listed as “lock box, no appointment needed” or something similar, which is sure to warrant a second look from busy agents. Ask your own agent if they can put a lock box on your home for easier showing.
If a lock box isn’t an option, just make it as convenient as possible for agents to access and show your home. Offer a flexible schedule, allow same-day viewing, and just be generally accommodating. If you make it even the least bit difficult, they’ll move on to other homes and you lose what could have been a great offer.
Give the buyer privacy. Try to give the buyer and agent a bit of privacy. Leave the house when they come in so they’ll feel comfortable and feel free to inspect all areas of the house. Most buyers tend to rush through the property when the owner is there.
Remember: Leave the showing off to the real estate agent. Never give the buyer a personal tour of your property – no matter how tempting it may seem to do so. While you know your home inside out and could probably point out every detail even with your eyes closed, let’s face it – the buyer wants to picture himself and his family in the home, not you and your family. Giving the buyers some privacy will let them connect to your home on a more personal way and let them picture their future in it.
Be ready for short notices. Making your home more accessible to more buyers means making it ready for sudden viewings. Your home should be as clean as possible, all the time. Keep in mind that many buyers cannot beyond the mess, so it is harder for them to picture your home as being beautiful when your furniture is in disarray or when your knickknacks are all over the place.
Untidy homes can be distracting. The clutter can actually devalue your property. In some cases, hiring a professional stager may let you sell your home for a higher price. A stager brings in fresh furniture and cleans up clutter to turn your property into a model home. Ask your real estate agent about this option.
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