Selling your own home can be done, but it takes time and can be very frustrating. It's recommended to list with an agent, but in the right market, you can do it yourself to save the commission. Here are some great tips that you can follow.

Gain an understanding of the house values. No, it's not about what you think your house is worth. The value is only what it's worth to potential buyers. You should know what houses like yours are paid for first.


Objectivity. Have your most open and honest friend to look at your house. He will be able to see problems that you never noticed.


Make a plan. What will your children say if people call asking about the house? Where will you close? Will there be an attorney to prepare your documents? Plan well, and it will all go smoother.


Make a list. What should be repaired, cleaned, changed, or removed? You have to deal with the obvious first.


Prepare to sell. List questions a buyer might have, and be ready with answers. Prepare comparison sheets showing other home sales, so buyers can see the value. Draw a map that shows nearby stores, libraries, etc.


Emphasize the benefits, not the features. Don't say "near stores". Instead, say "You can walk to the store in five minutes." You shouldn't just say "garage". Try "No chipping ice off the windshield in the morning."


Make sure that your ads carry all the important information. Make sure you state your address, telephone number, square feet, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and the price. If you leave out the price, some callers would just waste your time while other buyers will not bother to call.


Learn to listen to buyers. Many sellers get defensive when they talk about their home. Listen to the criticisms, and resolve them or ask how important the issue is to the buyer. So you have to learn something about selling.


Have a clear sales agreement. You have to make sure that both sides understand the agreement. What will happen, and when? What if the buyer doesn't get financing? What's included with the sale? When will the buyer take possession? Who will take care of the closing fee and the transfer tax?


Make closing the deal easy. Have documents ready to sign. You should also be ready with your answers to common questions. This may be the largest financial transaction in your buyer's life, so make him comfortable.

There's more than can be covered in ten tips, of course. But if you apply them, then you're better off than the average seller.

Well planned home improvements can substantially raise your selling price. At www.allseasonsconstruction.net, we can help get your home ready to sell with remodeling services such as baths.