How to Jump-Start the Home Selling Process in 5 Steps

Some sellers are personally and financially ready to list their homes and are eager to start the process. But it can be difficult to know where to start, especially if it’s your first time selling. Before explaining five steps to jump-start the home selling process, here’s what you need to know about Woodlawn, Chicago when listing your property.

Woodlawn is a South Side Chicago community located between two parks that boasts a lakefront view. There are several factors that make buyers interested in properties in the area, including its up-and-coming status, its location next to the University of Chicago, and great spots to eat. The number of homes for sale in the area is 56, which is a significant dip from last year’s 129. With this information in mind, here’s how to begin the selling process.

The first step to take is to work with a local and experienced real estate agent like those at Hello Chicago Homes. An agent will know the real estate market trends in the area and what buyers are looking for. With this knowledge, they’ll help prepare your home to meet those expectations. An agent can also help you schedule showings and market your home. You can count on an agent having a network of connections filled with professionals you may need, such as a contractor, home appraiser, or professional photographer.

When choosing the right agent, be sure to interview a few candidates before making your decision. If speed is important to you, ask for information like how their DOM (days on market) compares to other agents in the area. Also, be sure their skills, experience, and communication style align with your own. Communication with your agent is key to success, so establish a communication plan and method that works for you and the agent.

The next step to take is to prepare your home. First, thoroughly clean your home, as a buyer won’t be interested in a messy property. Mop, vacuum, and dust away any cobwebs or debris collecting in or outside of your house. Next, declutter your home by sorting through items you don’t need, then decide what to sell, donate, or throw away. Extra clutter in a home appears smaller, and buyers may think that the home is less spacious than it actually is.

Also, consider what repairs to do. Carry out small repairs yourself, like replacing broken bulbs, fixing a knob on a cabinet, or filling in holes in the walls. Then decide which larger repairs to make if any are needed. Ideally, Woodlawn homes for sale should be move-in ready, as that would attract the most buyers. However, larger problems like foundational issues, or seasonal problems like a malfunctioning HVAC during the summer, can also be deal breakers.

Lastly, stage your home for viewing. This helps you attract as many potential buyers as possible. Although you can stage your whole home, sticking to areas like the master bedroom, living room, and kitchen are often enough to impress buyers. To stage, let in plenty of natural light by opening blinds, take down personal items like family photos or unique decorations, and focus on light and neutral redecorations.

The first part of a home that a buyer sees during a showing is the outside, which is why focusing on curb appeal can help you sell a house fast. Make sure buyers get the best first impression by trimming trees and bushes, mowing the lawn, or pruning the garden area. Sweep off any steps and power wash walkways and driveways to make them look brand new. Create an inviting atmosphere at the front entrance by cleaning off the door, replacing an old doormat, and adding some color with freshly potted plants.

When you’ve finished preparing your home, a real estate agent can help you price your home correctly. They’ll research the surrounding area for listed properties that are similar to yours, then make a comparative market analysis to determine how to price your home. Pricing a little under market value can help generate more offers, and an agent can help you find the balance of pricing that isn’t too high to deter buyers but not too low to miss out on potential profit.

The median list price for Woodland homes is $187,500 as of September 2022, although an agent will know how to account for factors like the home’s condition and any upgrades, the size, and the location. With a mix of newer (post-2000) and older (pre-1940) homes, the variability can be hard to account for if you aren’t an expert.

The last step to take when selling your home is to market the property. Woodlawn is a dense, urban neighborhood, so physical marketing like setting up a for-sale sign, networking with neighbors, and holding an open house can be successful. An agent can help you create clear signs and informative brochures with contact information for potential buyers.

To market your home online, start by hiring a professional photographer to take high-quality photos of your property. A professional knows how to capture the best angles of your home, which filters to use, and how to edit using the correct software. An agent will list your home on MLS along with a description of your home highlighting its features and perks of the surrounding location, such as the 500-acre Jackson Park or Lake Michigan to the east.

By following these five steps, you’ll be ready to sell your home in no time. If you need help with the home selling process, contact local agent Jordan Fuller to help guide you through the process.