What is your home worth?
This is a tricky question and there are many factors to consider including condition, upgrades, market trends, and comparable properties in your neighbourhood. The listing price of a home can make or break a sale so it is always advisable to work with a real estate professional who will do the research and advise you on the best listing price for your home. This will ensure not only that it sells quickly but also for the best possible price in the shortest time.
Why is the original listing price so important?
“First impressions are everything when selling your home. Studies have shown that the first two weeks on the market are the most crucial to your success.” It is important to put your best foot forward! Although it may be tempting to price your home high, to see what happens, especially if you are not in a rush to sell, this may not work out the way that you hope it will. Homes that are overpriced and then drop the price several times, tend to sell at a much lower price than what the original asking price should have been. A new listing gets way more views online in the first few weeks than at any other time so make sure that your price is right from the very beginning.
What is a Comparative Market Analysis?
Your Realtor will provide you with a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) for your home. This document will compare recently sold homes similar to yours in your neighbourhood as well as homes that are currently on the market. The CMA will paint an accurate picture of the current real estate market in your area and what you could expect to make for your home. The key here is that Realtors have access to information that is not available to the general public; for example, there is no way to find out the selling price of homes in your neighbourhood otherwise. All homes are different and this is also considered. Your home will be compared against the others with a variety of factors to show how it compares and to help determine the ideal asking price.
Ultimately, It is YOUR Decision...
At the end of the day, it is your home and you can price it however you may choose but it is always advisable to trust your REALTOR. They are professionals who understand the market and have access to information to come up with the best price for listing your home. “Choose the right professional to help you with your home sale and then listen to your real estate agent's advice and your transaction is more likely to go through quickly and smoothly from the beginning.” And also remember, your home is only worth what someone is willing to pay on the day they choose to buy it but pricing your home competitively can help lead them to that decision.