The Marketing Process of your Home

Many things go into procuring a buyer for your home. Your real estate professional may do any one or all of the following real estate marketing activities:

• Put a "For Sale" sign in your front yard.
• Hang a Lockbox on your front door ( a lockbox is a universal metal container for your house key that is hung on the front door and can only be opened by a special key or combination by licensed Real Estate Sales Representatives. It provides access when the owner is away, thus assuring full exposure to prospective buyers).
• Mail marketing flyers to potential buyers.
• Advertise your home in local homes catalogues.
• Send "Just Listed" postcards to the neighbors.
• Hold an "Open House" for Buyers and for other real estate professionals.
• Post your home on all applicable real estate websites.
• Market you home via email to other real estate professionals in your market.

As the homeowner, your responsibility during this marketing process is to do everything possible to showcase the home in its best light during the showing times. When a prospective buyer comes to look at your home, you should talk all family members and all pets away for a while, so that the buyer can really "try on" your home. Below is a list of 13 "lucky" things that you can do to make the home really "shine"!

1. Consider Renovation. Though not a necessity, certain renovations, such as new kitchens, bathrooms, and professional landscaping may reap a financial benefit that far out weighs their cost. Your Real Estate Sales Representative will discuss the costs and benefits of any renovation with you personally.
2. You Never Get A Second Chance To Make A First Impression. Make sure your home's front door is clean and freshly painted if necessary. Also keep lawn trimmed, yard clear and the home's walkways clear of snow, sand and ice.
3. Decorate For A Quicker Home Sale. Faded walls and worn woodwork significantly reduce your home's appeal. A new coat of paint is an inexpensive way to increase your home's value.
4. Let The Sun Shine In. Open curtains and draperies to show visitors how bright and cheerful your home can be. Dark rooms can seem both small and depressing.
5. Sweat The Small Stuff. Dripping faucets, loose knobs, sticking windows and other minor flaws are often more visible than you think. Take the time to make these small repairs.
6. From Top to Bottom. Display the full value of your attic and basement by removing all unnecessary articles. Brighten a dark, dull area by painting the walls.
7. Keep Stairways Clear. Cluttered staircases appear messy and detract from your home's appeal. They're also unsafe.
8. Make Closets Look Bigger. Neat, uncluttered closets show that the space is ample.
9. The Importance of a Bathroom. Beautiful bathrooms will help sell your home. Make this room sparkle.
10. Make Bedrooms Inviting. Remove excess furniture and use attractive bedspreads and curtains.>
11.  Let There Be Light. Proper illumination is like a welcome sign and very encouraging to the potential buyer.
12. Keep It Quiet. Turn off the television. Either use soft, mellow music to set a relaxed mood, or keep the stereo silent.
13. Don't Forget Your Four-Legged Friends. Keep pets out of the home while potential buyers are visiting. Many prospects are afraid of or allergic to pets, and will not be able to properly consider your home if they are present.