Find a Buyer - Preparation can get you ready for the selling process, but
finding a buyer requires a well executed marketing effort.
Market Your Home
There are a number of components to a well-conceived marketing plan. Understanding each - and
what it can contribute to your sales effort - is important to achieving the best possible results.
Advertising
Advertising is a key part of an effective marketing plan. Your real estate broker should
advertise the property periodically in local newspapers. Generally, the cost of advertising
is included in the commission, so make sure your property gets its share. Signage is also
important - a prominently displayed sign on the property is one of the most effective pieces
of advertising, so make sure there is a clear and visible spot available.
Multiple Listing Service
The Multiple Listing Service, or MLS, is a catalog of available homes in a given market area.
Your agent will list your home in the local MLS so that other realtors in the area can access
information when working with buyers. The MLS is only available through your agent - and it
is a powerful selling tool.
Open Houses
Open houses are another major marketing tool when selling a home. There are two basic types
of open house. The first, generally scheduled during the week, is for area agents to stop
by and take a look at a home that is new to the market. The second type is held on a weekend
- usually a Sunday afternoon - and is intended to allow homebuyers to visit the property without
an appointment.
The Lockbox
A lockbox is a small device containing a key to the house that is attached to or near the
front door. Local agents can access the box to gain entry to the house at any time. Ideal
for unoccupied homes, the lockbox may be problematical if you have kids or pets - or are simply
uncomfortable with this arrangement. If you do not use a lockbox, make sure that your agent
has a key or that you are available on short notice to open the house.
Using the Net
The Internet has begun to revolutionize the home selling process. Shoppers (and sellers)
have access to more information than ever before. It's important to select an agent who has
a significant understanding of the Internet. Your agent should have a web site where shoppers
can access information about your home and should list the property with one or more major
online listing services.
Have Your Home Ready
Your home should be maintained in a constant state of readiness to be viewed. Try to keep
things as clean and uncluttered as possible. Keep the yard well tended and make sure that
access to the house is unfettered (keep snow cleared away in winter).
Staging
Have potpourri or scented candles on hand to keep the house clean and fresh smelling. If
you have a fireplace, consider having a fire burning during viewings (season and time permitting).
Ask your agent for other suggestions on presenting your home in the best possible way.
Handling Kids and Pets
Whenever possible, arrange for children and pets to stay with a friend or neighbor during
showings. If the children are home during a showing, explain that they should be quiet and
well behaved while the buyers are in the house.
Octavio is an energetic, caring, and dedicated
sales associate who takes the time to listen to each of his clients’ unique needs.
Both buyers and sellers comment on his professionalism and integrity in today’s real
estate market. Count on Octavio when you’re ready to buy or sell a home.
www.octaviomendes.com is brought to you by
Octavio Mendes "Integrity is the key in Octavio's business carrier. He strives constantly to provide the best possible service for his clients."
for Maplewood, New Providence, Newark, Short Hills, Summit, New
Jersey real estate
