Selling the first house you've ever spent money on can be great if you're already set to move into a new home, but it can also present some stress. You might worry that your house will sit on the market too long or that you will lose out on some of the money you've already invested in the place. The suggestions here may help you to be more confident about the process and your ability to sell your first home.
Be Fair About Price
Knowing how much money you personally spent on upgrades, repairs, and replacements in the house, you might be very eager to put the house on the market at a much higher price than you paid. However, you've got to be aware that there are market conditions that could mean that such a steep increase in price can't be supported by recent sales in the area. Your real estate agent is likely to help you come to a selling price, but you can also enlist the help of a certified residential appraiser to arrive at a sales price that you feel comfortable with--without making it more expensive than people are willing to pay in the current market.
Use a Home Inspector
Buyers want to be sure that they're not going to have to pay for a lot of things after they buy. You can help them by getting a home inspector on your own. Once you've got a full report from the home inspector, you've got some choices to make. You can make any necessary repairs and keep your selling price the same, or offer the place at a slight discount, knowing that a prospective buyer is likely to request that when they become aware of whatever issues exist.
Have Multiple Open Houses
You and your family might be in a state of transition, moving out of the current house to go into a new one, but it's important that you not only have the house available for private showings but that you host a number of open houses so that you attract more buyers. This can be somewhat easier if you are moving, as you can remove a lot of your personal items so that others can better imagine their own items in the living space.
When hosting these events, be sure that you pay attention to the lawn and backyard. While people will be highly interested in the interior of your house, the lawn is their introduction to your entire property. The backyard is where they may envision pool activities or barbecues with their families. It's important that these outdoor spaces look as good as they can.
With these tips, your first home should be easier to put on the market. Consulting various real estate pros during this time will help guide your actions so you can be satisfied with your sale.