It goes almost without saying that the Denver metro area real estate market as well as much of the Front Range from Colorado Springs to Fort Collins continues to be hot! Depending on location, buyers and sellers are having to move fast, price changes up and down can happen overnight, and some out-of-state buyers are offering without physically seeing properties. Both consumers and agents are navigating this fast market together. Some things never change in that everyone needs to work together to make for a smooth process. That being said, there are some timeless essentials in getting a home sold in this white-hot real estate market.
1. The Right Real Estate Agent
Buying or selling a home is one of the most financially significant events you will ever have in your lifetime so having the right agent by your side can make your experience go much more smoothly. An experienced real estate agent who is the right fit for you should be easy to communicate with, understand the market in and out, and also help you with details like staging when selling a home. I personally offer an introductory conversation for all potential clients to make sure we’re the right fit. I also have many years buying and selling in the Denver market so I can help you, even if you’re coming in from out of state.
2. Timing is Everything
This one is pretty easy for sellers right now, since it seems like any time is a great time to put your home on the market. Many buyers complain about not having enough available inventory so if you’re looking to sell a home, the timing is fantastic. Springtime is typically the most active and in highly sought after neighborhoods it’s not uncommon for homes to sell fast for over the asking price. This is even happening now as the holidays approach. So be sure if you want to put your home on the market, that you’re ready to make a move now because the process could be quick!
3. Staging Your Home
This is an example where the right agent could help with this step tremendously. Staging a home for sale includes making cosmetic updates so the home shows well, bringing in furniture and props to an empty home, and decluttering (I like to call this pre-packing) a home that is still being lived in. As a seller, let your agent make suggestions in order to show your home at its visual best.
4. Curb Appeal
Just like in meeting someone, a first impression carries a lot of weight and that’s why curb appeal is so important. A majority of the time, homes are listed online with the external front as the cover photo and if that presents poorly, busy buyers are likely to not even want to see your home as a consideration. Let your agent make suggestions about trimming trees, planting flowers, painting doors and yard clean up so that the curb appeal can be at its finest.
5. Upgrades
Through the years, buyers can gravitate towards certain trends in homes and if a seller has that in their home, then it is as good as sold. For example: stainless steel appliances in the kitchen or xeriscape lawns can really resonate with some buyers. Sellers will likely do best by listening to their agent, as that agent will know what trends are currently popular. Sometimes, the investments made in upgrades can fall flat or will be unnecessary depending on market trends. Before you, as a seller, spend thousands of dollars on upgrades, check with your agent about what will get you the most bang for your buck.
Do you have any lingering questions about the home selling process? Are you in the market to buy or sell your home? Call and text me at (720) 323-4176 or email me at [email protected]
