Selling a home requires a number of important steps, but with the right knowledge and resources on your side, you can maximize your home's value and minimize your stress along the way. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll receive expert insight, tips, and strategies from leading agent Cadey O’Leary to help you navigate the selling process in Lincoln Park. Whether you're a first-time seller or an experienced investor, these home-selling tips will equip you with the information you need to make wise decisions and achieve your goals.
Get to know the local market
When preparing to list your Lincoln Park home for sale, consider the current market trends to ensure that you make the most of your selling journey and receive the highest offers. Your agent will evaluate the local trends in demand, inventory, and pricing, which can significantly influence your list price and give you an idea of how long it may take to find a buyer. Understanding the current local market trends will also help you determine when to list your home and whether to make improvements before listing. With up-to-date market information on your side, you can set realistic expectations for the sale of your home.
Connect with a top agent
Teaming up with the right agent can make all the difference when you’re selling your home in Lincoln Park. Working with a top-notch agent like Cadey O’Leary can help you secure the best possible price for your property. Your agent will be highly in tune with the local housing scene and well-versed in the features potential buyers may be looking for in the area.
Additionally, an experienced agent will ensure that all paperwork is handled correctly so that your sale meets all the necessary requirements and the timeline is met. Ultimately, having a reliable and experienced agent on your side will give you the peace of mind that your home sale is being handled properly and professionally.
Prepare your home for sale
When listing your Lincoln Park home, it's essential to present your property in the best possible light to attract potential buyers and get the highest price. Whether you're planning to sell in the next few months or just considering your options, there are a few key ways to prepare your home for success ahead of time.
Valuations and appraisals
Determining an accurate value of your home is a great place to start. Home valuations, a service often provided by local agents, involve estimating the market value of a home based on comparable homes in the area. This can help you determine a reasonable asking price for your property. Appraisals are similar, but they typically involve a professional assessment of the condition of your property. This process, along with the pre-listing home inspection, can help you determine which repairs or renovations may be advantageous to pursue prior to listing.
Renovations and repairs
Many sellers choose to hire a professional inspector to thoroughly assess the property for any repair needs before listing. The inspector will evaluate the HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems, and they will assess the property for any structural problems, like damage to the roof or foundation. You’ll be provided a detailed inspection report highlighting any issues that were found. That way, you can address any areas of concern before buyers begin touring the property.
In addition, it’s a great idea to perform minor repairs throughout your home to ensure it’s in top shape. You can start small by replacing any outdated light fixtures or appliances. Upgrading these can help to greatly improve the look and feel of your home, and they can also increase its energy efficiency. You may opt to give the interior a fresh coat of paint, selecting posh, neutral colors that complement the existing decor. Even a new front door or window treatments can go a long way with buyers and give your home a more modern feel.
By taking the time to make these renovations and repairs before listing, you can help to make your property more attractive to prospective buyers, thus increasing the chances of a successful and quick sale.
Staging and photography
If you want to create a true show-stopping space, home staging is an excellent step. Professional home staging helps to bring out the full potential of each room by arranging furniture, artwork, and decor in a way that showcases the home’s best features. Effective staging also helps to create a feeling of warmth, comfort, and allure, helping buyers to feel at ease and picture themselves at home within the space.
Once your home is effectively staged, hire a professional photographer to take a compelling set of photos for your listing. Professional photography can help to make a home stand out from the competition by highlighting the most intriguing and important features of the property. An expert photographer will have the tools and techniques to capture everything that makes your home amazing. You want to create a listing that invites buyers to reach out for more information or to set up a tour.
Setting a price and timeline
Once your home is prepped and ready to list, you’ll need to set an accurate price and time the sale effectively to get the highest return on your investment. By working with a local agent who knows the current real estate trends inside and out, you can determine a competitive yet realistic price for your home. Your agent will guide you in entering the housing game at a time that works best for your timeline and goals.
Sell your home in Lincoln Park
Ultimately, you want a highly qualified agent on your side. Team up with expert agent Cadey O’Leary to feel confident that your sale will achieve the returns you’re hoping for. With over 10 years of experience backing her, Cadey’s expertise and insight in the Lincoln Park real estate scene will get results. Reach out today to get started on your selling journey.
*Header photo courtesy of Cadey O'Leary Collection
