Just as buyers need to do their research before taking on homeownership, those who are considering placing their home on the market also need to spend some time contemplating certain aspects before they list their property. In fact, there are three questions that every homeowner should ask themselves before placing their home on the market.

Question one – Is it the right time to sell?

There are phases in the property market that will favour buyers, and there are phases that will favour sellers. It all depends on the economic environment and conditions that surround the market. While there is a market trend throughout the country, there will also be certain areas that buck the trend due to specific, unique circumstances that influence a particular market. Ideally, before listing the property, a homeowner should talk to a real estate professional with extensive working knowledge of their specific market who can analyse current sales inventory and trends. A good agent will be able to determine whether it is the prime time to list the property to get the best possible price. In certain cases, there may be all kinds of reasons to hold back on listing the home, such as a large number of homes on the market in the area.

Question two – Is the price right?

Setting the right asking price is imperative to getting the best possible result out of the home sale. A crucial mistake that many sellers make is overpricing the home to counteract buyer negotiations. The problem with pricing a home above its perceived fair market value is that many buyers won’t even take the time to view it. Buyers would rather look at other properties that they deem to be priced at what they consider a reasonable, market-related price. 

A correctly-priced home will appeal to a wider range of buyers and will be sold within the shortest possible time. When buyers are comparing properties that are in the same area and offer similar features, price becomes the number one factor that will influence their decision-making process.

Question three – What is the exit strategy?

Although it is possible to have an estimated time frame as to how long the property will be on the market, it is impossible to pinpoint the exact day the home will be sold. The seller will need to establish a plan in the event it happens quickly.  Before the home is listed, it is a good idea for the seller to know where they will go if they are in between homes. They will need to decide whether they would want to stay in their current property and pay occupation rent or move to a temporary housing situation with a friend or relative. A post-sale plan will take some of the anxiety out of selling your home.