What 3 things do smart home sellers need to know to be a winner in today’s real estate market?

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Call it common sense, savvy selling, or just plain good manners.  If your property is for sale and you want buyers to enjoy looking at your home or condo- think about the following a few simple steps.

1. Get out!:  Leave the house. Usually, buyers don’t enjoy sellers following them around the property during a showing.  In situations when the seller cannot leave make sure your agent notifies the other agent and then make yourself disappear.  Let the agent know that you’ll be in the study or on the deck if they have any questions.  Getting out of the way should also include removing cars, bikes, or anything that blocks smooth entry into your property.
2. Curb your pets:  Unless you can take them to work, try to restrict them to a specific room or secure inside a container/cage.  The best-behaved “free range” pets have scared more than 1 or 2 buyers from walking beyond the entryway of your property.  Once again your agent should include notes on showing instructions about pets.  If you have your pet in the laundry room-post a note on the door so somebody doesn’t accidentally let them out.  The best way to handle pets is to get them out of the house for showings- but in the real world make sure your pet and potential buyers are as comfortable with the situation as possible.
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3. Negotiate!  Negotiate!  Negotiate!:  Yes it’s a crazy time in Cincinnati real estate- but not every home gets 20 offers.  Be willing to negotiate on things like price, closing date, covering points, or home warranty.   Buyers who grossly overbid often have buyer’s remorse and if it hits before closing- well the deal may not close.  Nobody likes to feel the negotiation was totally one-sided- be a graceful winner and offer even small concessions.

Remember to get the highest bid and win in the sales game smart home sellers have already decluttered and staged the property.