Selling Your Home

The Ten Commandments of Home Selling

The Ultimate Guide to Selling Your Home in 2024

In today's ever-evolving real estate market, selling your home requires more than just putting a "For Sale" sign in your yard. As we step into 2024, the dynamics of real estate have transformed, making it essential to employ strategic, innovative approaches to attract buyers and secure the best deal. Joe Houghton and the Minnesota Property Group of Remax Results bring you the latest insights and strategies to navigate the housing market successfully.

Expert Insights from Joe Houghton and the Minnesota Property Group of Remax Results

1. Understanding the Current Market:

Market Trends: Begin with an analysis of the current real estate market trends in your area. Highlight the importance of understanding local demand, pricing strategies, and how seasonality affects sales. Use data-driven insights to advise on the best times to sell.

Pricing Your Home Right: Emphasize the importance of setting a competitive price that reflects the current market conditions. Discuss how overpricing can deter potential buyers and how underpricing might lead to a bidding war, potentially increasing the final sale price.

2. Preparing Your Home for Sale:

Staging and Repairs: Outline the significance of staging your home to appeal to buyers and conducting necessary repairs. Offer advice on decluttering, depersonalizing, and highlighting the home's best features.

High-Quality Photography: Stress the importance of professional photography to make a compelling first impression online, where most buyers start their search.

3. Leveraging Digital Marketing:

Online Listings: Discuss how to create compelling online listings, emphasizing the role of SEO in real estate to ensure your listing is visible to potential buyers.

Social Media and Virtual Tours: Highlight the power of social media platforms and virtual tours in reaching a wider audience. Encourage sellers to...

Sell Your Twin Cities Home

Ultimate Guide to Selling Your Twin Cities Home

Discover the ultimate guide to selling your Twin Cities home. Get expert insights from Joe Houghton and the Minnesota Property Group of Remax Results for a swift, profitable sale.

Navigating the Twin Cities Real Estate Market: A Seller's Handbook

Table of Contents:

  1. Introduction to Selling Your Home in the Twin Cities
  2. Why Choose Joe Houghton and the Minnesota Property Group?
  3. Preparing Your Home for Sale: Tips and Strategies
  4. The Listing Process Explained
  5. Marketing Your Twin Cities Home: Innovative Techniques
  6. Negotiating Offers and Closing the Deal
  7. FAQs: Expert Answers to Your Home Selling Questions
  8. Conclusion: Taking the Next Steps with Confidence

Introduction to Selling Your Home in the Twin Cities

Selling your home in the Twin Cities area can be a complex and emotional process, but with the right guidance and expertise, it can also be a rewarding experience. Whether you're upsizing, downsizing, or making a lateral move, understanding the local real estate market and preparing your home for sale are key steps to success.

Why Choose Joe Houghton and the Minnesota Property Group?

Joe Houghton and the Minnesota Property Group of Remax Results are leaders in the Twin Cities real estate market. With years of experience and a deep understanding of local trends, they offer personalized service, innovative marketing strategies, and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for their clients.

Preparing Your Home for Sale: Tips and Strategies

Before listing your home, it's crucial to prepare it to make a great first impression. This section covers decluttering, staging, minor repairs, and upgrades that can enhance your home's appeal and value.

The Listing Process Explained

Understanding the listing...

The Best Time to Sell My Twin Cities Home

Best Time to Sell Your Home in the Twin Cities | YourWebsite.com

When Is the Best Time to Sell My Home in the Twin Cities?

As winter's chill recedes, the Twin Cities real estate scene bursts into life. This period is characterized by a surge in buyer activity, with many individuals armed with pre-approvals and a keen readiness to invest in their next home. This bustling atmosphere is not just a seasonal spectacle; it's a golden window for sellers. The scarcity of listings combined with the high demand creates a seller's market, where properties often attract multiple offers, some even surpassing the asking price.

The Spring Market Surge: A Seller's Paradise

Forecasting the market's favorability towards sellers in the Twin Cities, the answer is a resounding yes. The alignment of favorable interest rates, a strong buyer presence, and limited inventory creates an environment ripe for sellers to achieve exceptional outcomes. This unique confluence of factors makes early spring not just a good time, but potentially the best time to list your home.

Lifestyle Changes and Real Estate Decisions

The decision to sell often coincides with a desire for lifestyle changes—whether it's upsizing to accommodate a growing family, downsizing in the wake of an empty nest, or simply seeking a change of scenery or pace. The spring market offers a versatile platform for these transitions, providing sellers with the leverage to navigate towards their next chapter under advantageous terms.

Capitalizing on the Spring Market: Strategies for Success

To truly leverage the spring selling season, preparation and strategic planning are key. Ensuring your home is market-ready,...

How To Be a Rock Star Home Seller in 5 Easy Steps

The Ultimate Guide to Effortlessly Selling Your Home in Minnesota

Selling your home in Minnesota doesn't have to be a daunting task. With the right approach and expert guidance, you can navigate the process smoothly and efficiently, ensuring the best outcome for your sale. Whether you're upsizing, downsizing, or embarking on a new adventure, here's how you can become a standout seller in the Minnesota real estate market.

1. Collaborate Closely with Your Real Estate Expert

The first step to a successful home sale in Minnesota is choosing a knowledgeable and experienced real estate agent. This professional will be your guide through every step, offering valuable insights on market trends, pricing strategies, and staging tips to highlight your home's best features. Their network of trusted professionals can also assist with any necessary repairs or improvements, making the process seamless.

2. Elevate Your Home’s Appeal

Before listing your home, it's crucial to ensure it's in pristine condition. Address any repairs, enhance the curb appeal, and declutter each space to showcase your home in its best light. A deep clean and thoughtful staging can significantly impact first impressions, making potential buyers feel welcomed and intrigued. For practical cleaning advice, websites like Clean My Space can offer a wealth of tips to get your home looking its absolute best.

3. Maintain Perfection with Minimal Effort

After organizing and cleaning your home, the challenge is to keep it show-ready at all times. Simple daily habits, such as doing dishes immediately and keeping counters clutter-free, can make a big difference. This readiness ensures that your home can be shown to potential buyers with little to no notice, maximizing your chances of a quick and successful sale.

4. Be Accommodating and Prepared for Showings

Flexibility...

5 Hot Tips to Heat Up Your Winter Home Sale

Maximize Your Home's Appeal This Winter

Maximize Your Home's Appeal with Minnesota's Premier Real Estate Agency: Winter Edition

1. Ensure Accessible Beauty, Snow or Shine

In Minnesota's snowy embrace, keeping your pathways clear is not just about safety; it's about making an impeccable first impression. Our agency emphasizes the importance of accessibility to your home, ensuring a welcoming path free of snow and ice. This season, let the snow accentuate the beauty of your property, providing a picturesque backdrop that enhances your home's appeal. For those with green thumbs, we recommend preparing a photo album showcasing your garden in full bloom, offering a glimpse into the warmer months ahead.

2. Let There Be Light

The natural light of winter, though scarce, can be your ally in highlighting your home's interior. We advise minimizing window dressings to maximize daylight, creating an inviting glow that beckons potential buyers. For evening showings, a well-lit home not only looks more inviting but also feels warmer and cozier, setting the stage for a memorable first impression.

3. Craft a Cozy Atmosphere

A warm welcome goes beyond the thermostat setting. We guide our sellers to create an ambiance of warmth and comfort, from the strategic placement of throws and cushions to the subtle scent of spices or potpourri. An active fireplace, whether gas or electric, can be the heart of your home's warm embrace, making it irresistible to visitors.

4. Seasonal Charm and Elegance

Decorations can transform your home into a winter wonderland that captivates potential buyers. We recommend tasteful and simple touches, like a classic wreath or elegant greenery, that celebrate the season without overwhelming the senses. Strategic lighting and seasonal decor can turn your property into a beacon of warmth and...

Thinking About Selling? Do It Now - Here's Why

Maximizing Your Home Sale in Minnesota: The Fall vs. Spring Debate

As we transition from the vibrant summer months into the serene embrace of fall, homeowners in the Twin Cities area contemplating selling their homes are presented with a unique opportunity. The prevailing wisdom often highlights spring as the prime real estate season, but current market data and trends suggest that selling your home in the fall can be equally, if not more, advantageous. This is particularly relevant in the dynamic Minnesota housing market, where seasonal shifts play a pivotal role in buyer behavior and market dynamics.

Fall: A Season of Opportunity in the Twin Cities

Market Conditions Favor Sellers

Recent reports from the Minneapolis Association of Realtors illuminate a market that remains robustly in favor of sellers. With inventory levels decreasing by 17.4% and median sale prices on an upward trajectory, increasing by 5.6%, the fall season offers a ripe landscape for sellers aiming to capitalize on strong demand and competitive pricing.

Rental Market Pressures

With Twin Cities rents continuing their upward march, the appeal of homeownership intensifies for many prospective buyers. The escalating rental costs, coupled with the allure of building equity in a home, create a fertile ground for sellers, as more renters look to transition into homeownership during the fall.

The Appeal of Pre-Winter Purchases

Minnesota's winters are renowned for their intensity, making the prospect of moving during this season less than desirable for many. By listing in the fall, sellers tap into a pool of buyers eager to settle into their new homes before the winter holidays and the onset of snow and ice.

Spring: The Traditional Selling Season

While the fall market presents compelling reasons for listing your home, it's important to acknowledge the enduring appeal of the spring season. Traditionally...

10 Steps to Great Home Curb Appeal

  • Maximize Home Sale Price in 2024: 10 Essential Exterior Enhancements

  • Modern Minneapolis Home with amazing curb appeal

    As you gear up to list your home for sale in 2024, it's crucial to focus not just on sprucing up the interior but also on enhancing the exterior to maximize your property's appeal. The significance of curb appeal cannot be overstated—it forms the critical first impression that can make or break a potential sale. An inviting exterior can draw in buyers, making them eager to see more, regardless of the home's interior. Here's how to ensure your home stands out positively from the moment potential buyers lay eyes on it.

    1. Enhance Your Landscaping

    Keep your yard manicured by trimming shrubs and trees, replacing any dead plants, and adding colorful annuals to brighten your space. Shrubs are cost-effective and enhance the look immediately compared to the long growth period for trees.

    2. Lawn Care

    A lush, green lawn is essential. Regularly mow, edge, and water your grass to keep it vibrant. Remove weeds and clear away any yard debris to present a well-maintained appearance.

    3. Vibrant Flower Beds

    Clear out any dead foliage and replenish mulch to give your flower beds a fresh look. Plant mature annuals for instant color and appeal.

    4. Backyard Appeal

    Ensure the backyard is clean, organized, and inviting. If you have a pool or water feature, maintain it meticulously. Consider decluttering to make the space look larger and more welcoming.

    5. Walkways and Paths

    Keep all paths clean and well-maintained. Repair any damage to concrete areas and consider adding solar lighting to enhance the pathway to your front door.

    6. Front Door and Porch

    A welcoming front door and porch area are key. Consider...

The Ultimate Guide to Selling Your Home in Minnesota

The Ultimate Guide to Selling Your Home in Minnesota

The Ultimate Guide to Selling Your Home in Minnesota: Insider Tips from Top Realtors

Selling your home in Minnesota is an opportunity to capitalize on one of the most vibrant real estate markets in the country. Whether you're upsizing, downsizing, or changing locations, the key to a successful home sale lies in understanding the market dynamics and leveraging professional expertise. Here’s your ultimate guide, packed with insider tips from top realtors, to navigate the Minnesota real estate market successfully.

Understand the Local Market

The first step in selling your home is to get a grip on the local real estate trends. Minnesota's market can vary significantly from one neighborhood to another. Seasonal changes also play a crucial role; for instance, listings often surge in spring, creating both opportunities and competition. A top realtor with local expertise can provide valuable insights into the best timing for listing your home and setting a competitive price that reflects current market conditions.

Professional Staging and Photography

In today's digital age, your home's first impression is likely to be online. This makes professional staging and photography not just beneficial but essential. Staging highlights your home’s best features, while professional photos capture its appeal, encouraging potential buyers to explore further. Top realtors often have experienced stagers and photographers in their network, ensuring your listing stands out.

Strategic Marketing

Effective marketing goes beyond listing your home on popular real estate websites. It involves a strategic mix of online and offline tactics tailored to reach potential buyers where they spend the most time....

Preparing Your Home to Sell - The Deep Clean

Preparing Your Twin Cities Home for Sale in 2024

Preparing Your Twin Cities Home for Sale in 2024: The Ultimate Cleanliness Guide for Top Real Estate Agents

clean modern home

As we move into 2024, the real estate market in the Twin Cities continues to evolve, and so do the expectations of home buyers. To stand out in this competitive market, it's crucial to present your home in its best possible light. A spotless, immaculate home not only showcases pride of ownership but also signals to potential buyers that the property has been meticulously maintained. Here's your comprehensive guide to preparing your Twin Cities home for sale, ensuring it shines above the rest.

Deep Cleaning: Beyond the Basics

Start with a thorough decluttering and depersonalization of your space. Once that's achieved, dive into deep cleaning. Aim for a level of cleanliness that makes your home gleam with sunlight streaming through windows, reflecting off polished surfaces, and capturing the admiration of every visitor.

Addressing Unpleasant Odors

Odors can be a significant deterrent for potential buyers, often unbeknownst to homeowners accustomed to their surroundings. Common culprits include pet odors, mold, mildew, and smoke. Tackle these head-on by cleaning or replacing affected items and avoiding masking smells with deodorizers, which can exacerbate the problem. For persistent odors, consider professional cleaning services to ensure a fresh and welcoming environment.

A Room-by-Room Cleaning Checklist

Walls and Ceilings:

Vacuum the edges of ceilings and apply a fresh coat of white paint if needed. Clean and repaint marked or dingy walls in a neutral, inviting color.

Floors:...

Selling a Home this Winter? 5 Hot Tips for Cold Weather Listings

Preparing Your Twin Cities Home for a Winter Sale

Preparing Your Twin Cities Home for a Winter Sale in 2024

Minnesota Home for sale in the Winter

Optimizing your Twin Cities home for a winter sale in 2024 involves specific strategies to overcome the challenges presented by cold weather, snow, and limited daylight. The goal is to make your property stand out and appeal to top real estate agents and prospective buyers. Here are refined and updated tips to prepare your home for a successful winter market listing:

1. Ensure Accessibility in All Seasons

Maintain clear pathways by diligently shoveling snow and de-icing driveways and walkways. Accessibility is key for making a positive first impression. While snow removal might be burdensome, it eliminates the need for regular lawn care and can even enhance your home's appeal by adding a serene, snow-covered aesthetic. For homes with notable landscaping, prepare a photo album showcasing your garden and outdoor features during the warmer months to highlight their potential.

2. Maximize Natural and Artificial Light

With shorter days, making the most of natural light is crucial. Keep windows unobstructed to let in as much daylight as possible. In the evenings, ensure your home feels welcoming with strategically placed lamps and exterior lighting. This not only enhances the warmth of your property but also showcases its potential for cozy evenings.

3. Create a Warm and Inviting Atmosphere

Adjust the thermostat to a comfortable 70-72 degrees Fahrenheit during showings to welcome buyers with a warm environment. Utilize the charm of a gas or electric fireplace if available, and accentuate living spaces with soft throws and...

The Optimal Time to List Your House: Navigating Seasons and Market Trends

When Is The Best Time To List My House? An In-Depth Analysis

Deciding when to list your house is a pivotal decision that can significantly impact the success of your sale. While the optimal time to sell a house can vary based on local market conditions, broader real estate trends provide valuable insights. In this blog post, we'll explore the best times to list your house for sale, considering various factors that influence the housing market.

Understanding Seasonal Trends in Real Estate

Broadly speaking, spring emerges as the prime season for selling homes. This period, typically defined as late March through June, aligns with several factors that make it an ideal time for real estate transactions:

Spring: The Golden Season for Sellers

  • Favorable Weather: Warmer, longer days in spring make house hunting more appealing. Properties look their best with blooming gardens and extended daylight hours for showings.
  • School-Year Considerations: Many families aim to relocate during summer to avoid disrupting the school year, making spring an ideal time to start house hunting.
  • Tax Refunds: With tax refunds in hand, potential buyers may have extra funds for down payments.

Late Spring and Early Summer: The Peak Months

Specifically, late spring and early summer - May, June, and April - are often the peak months for selling homes. During this period, sellers can potentially net thousands of dollars more compared to the slower months of October, November, and December. This trend is supported by a comprehensive analysis conducted in 2023.

Fall and Winter: The Off-Peak Seasons

In contrast, fall and winter generally see a dip in homebuying activity. Several factors contribute to this trend:

  • Holiday Season: The busy holiday season and colder weather can deter both sellers and buyers.
  • School Year: Families are less likely to move during...

Selling Your Minnesota Home

How to Sell My House

How to Sell My House

Selling your house can be a monumental task, especially when it's filled with memories of milestones, like purchasing your first home. My wife Kate and I experienced this firsthand. Our journey began with the joy of buying our first home before our marriage and went on to the bittersweet decision of selling it for something that better suited our growing needs. This article draws from personal experiences and industry insights to offer comprehensive advice on selling your house in Minnesota (MN).

The First Home: A Journey of Memories

Our first home was more than just bricks and mortar; it was where we started our life together. Renovating it as a surprise for Kate and seeing her reaction was unforgettable. However, as our needs evolved, so did our living requirements, leading us to the decision to sell.

The Decision to Sell

Deciding to sell our first home was challenging, not just logistically but emotionally as well. It was a process of letting go, filled with memories but also excitement for the future.

Listing Your Home with a Real Estate Professional

The first step in selling your house is to partner with a seasoned real estate agent. An agent with a deep understanding of the local market and a robust marketing strategy can significantly ease the selling process, making it less stressful and more efficient.

Developing an Exit Plan

It's essential to have an exit strategy, especially if you're unable to purchase a new home before selling your current one. Whether you're adding a contingency to find a new home before closing or arranging temporary housing, planning ahead is crucial.

Making Your Home Appealing

Your real estate agent can offer valuable advice on making your home more attractive to potential buyers. From necessary repairs to aesthetic improvements, these recommendations can...

Home Features That Make Buyers Fall in Love

What Home Buyers in Minnesota Want 

For most people, their home is not only the roof over their heads; it is the most valuable financial asset they possess. As such, sellers should expect to make the most profit possible from its sale. With this goal in mind, if you are a seller preparing to put your house on the market, it is essential to consider what features buyers view most favorably.

Things for Home Sellers in MN to Consider

In the process of getting your home in tip-top shape for the market, you may plan to do some upgrades. That's a good idea, providing you do not go overboard on improvements. To spend your money wisely, it pays to know what features make a buyer's heart beat faster when looking at homes. Here are some of the features that turn lookers into buyers.

Laundry Room

Color me surprised, but a separate laundry room has become a game-changer with homebuyers in recent years. A dedicated laundry room was the number one feature in a National Association of Home Builders survey, with 91 percent of buyers saying, "I need one!" If you have the washer and dryer in the basement, as many people do, consider kicking the space up a notch with some cabinetry, shelving, and a folding table.

Hardwood Floors

According to a 2019 survey by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), 83% of buyers prefer wood floors. If you sell a home with hardwood floors under wall-to-wall carpeting, it makes sense to rip it out and refinish the floors. If your carpeting is begging for a replacement, upgrade to wood, engineered wood, or laminate flooring. 

Updated Kitchen

Newer kitchens are on just about every buyer's wish list. Spending some money on modernizing an outdated kitchen can reap the most rewards. There are several cost-effective ways you can accomplish this without breaking the bank, especially if you are handy and willing to do some of the work yourself.

  • Paint your cabinets.  White kitchens are still very popular with today's...

7 Great Tips For Selling Your House in the Fall

Unlock the Secrets to Selling Your Home This Fall with Minnesota's Best Realtor

Secrets to Selling Your Home This Fall with Minnesota's Best Realtor

As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, it's clear that autumn in Minnesota is not just a season of change but a season of opportunity for home sellers. If you've been contemplating whether this is the right time to sell your home, let the expertise of Minnesota's best realtor guide you through a successful sale this fall. With the Twin Cities real estate market remaining robust and analysts hailing this as one of the most favorable times in the last 15 years to sell, the autumn season offers a unique window of opportunity.

Why Fall Is the Prime Time to Sell in Minnesota

Autumn brings a special kind of magic to Minnesota, not just in the natural beauty of its landscapes but also in the dynamics of its real estate market. The fall season is the second-best time of the year for home sales, with a decrease in inventory levels enhancing your chances of finding the right buyer. Moreover, a diverse pool of buyers, including millennials, empty nesters, and those relocating for jobs, are actively searching for homes, driven by the allure of low interest rates and easier mortgage approvals.

7 Expert Tips for Selling Your Home This Autumn

1. Enhance Your Autumn Curb Appeal

First impressions are everything. Elevate your home's exterior with seasonal decorations like chrysanthemums and pumpkins, ensuring your property stands out as warm and inviting.

2. Stage Your Home with Fall in Mind

Inside, incorporate the rich, cozy colors of fall through accents and décor, making every room an inviting space that potential buyers can envision themselves in.

3. Create a Cozy Atmosphere

Emphasize the comfort of your home with soft throws, plush rugs, and warm lighting to make potential...

Prepare to Sell Your Home in the Spring

Ultimate Guide to Sell Your Twin Cities Home

Are you considering selling your home in Minneapolis or St. Paul? The Twin Cities real estate market is unique, offering diverse opportunities for sellers, whether you're in bustling neighborhoods or serene suburbs. This guide provides essential tips and strategies to effectively sell your Twin Cities home, ensuring you navigate the market with confidence.

Understand the Twin Cities Real Estate Market

The first step in selling your home is understanding the Twin Cities real estate market. The market trends in Minneapolis might differ slightly from those in St. Paul, with varying demand levels, property values, and buyer preferences. Stay informed about local real estate trends, including average home prices, days on market, and inventory levels. This knowledge will help you price your home competitively and market it effectively.

Prepare Your Home for Sale

Preparing your home for sale is crucial to attract potential buyers and secure the best possible offer. Consider making necessary repairs and upgrades that will enhance your home's appeal. Staging your home, both inside and out, can also make a significant difference. Professional staging highlights your home's strengths, making it more inviting to prospective buyers.

Marketing Your Home

To sell your Twin Cities home quickly and for the best price, effective marketing is key. High-quality photos and virtual tours can showcase your home's best features. Utilize online platforms, social media, and traditional marketing methods to reach a broad audience. Highlighting the unique aspects of your home and neighborhood, such as nearby parks, schools, and amenities, can also attract more interest.

Pricing Strategy

Setting the right price for your Twin Cities home is a delicate balance. Price it too high, and you risk...

Sell Your House Fast With These 15 Tips

15 Curb Appeal Tips to Sell Your Home Fast in the Twin Cities Western Suburbs

15 Curb Appeal Tips to Sell Your Home Fast in the Twin Cities 

Maximize your home's first impression with expert local realtor advice.

Make a Lasting First Impression

Your home's exterior is pivotal in attracting offers and determining the speed of your sale. Ensure your home's curb appeal is top-notch with these strategies:

  1. Power Wash Perfection: Clean your home's exterior and windows to make them sparkle.
  2. Door Delight: Paint your front door a vibrant color for a welcoming entrance.
  3. Welcoming Walkway: Refresh your welcome mat with a bright, stylish option or a DIY design.
  4. Floral Flourishes: Add flower baskets and pots near your entrance for color and charm.
  5. Hardware Shine: Update or polish your door's hardware and house numbers.
  6. Lighting Lift: Clean or update outdoor light fixtures.
  7. Sit and Stay Awhile: Place a chair or bench near your entrance as a welcoming gesture.
  8. Entryway Elegance: Enhance your entry with paint, stain, or stencil for a unique touch.

The Front Porch as a Gathering Space

Maximize your front porch's appeal by staging it as an inviting outdoor room with the following elements:

  • Seating and weather-resistant rugs
  • Vibrant plants and flowers
  • Outdoor lighting for evening ambiance

Landscaping That Says 'Well-Maintained'...

Listen To Your Agent for a Smooth Home Selling Experience

If you Know A Great MN Realtor, Listen to Them

Listen to your agent is probably the #1 best piece of home selling advice you will ever hear. Consider the reasons you hired him in the first place. You were impressed with his years of experience. Over his career, he has sold thousands of homes, and he knows what works and what does not. When a house doesn’t sell, he can tell you why and what to do to fix it. He can also tell you what not to do from the beginning.

Here are some great pieces of advice that you should hear from your agent when you list your home. Would you please take it seriously? The sale of a home is a stressful process, but a few easy steps can lead to a smooth and seamless experience. Listen to your agent. He wants what’s best for you.

To put you on the inside track, here are three examples of home selling advice that are universally true.

Price Your Home to the Market

During your listing presentation, the agent should include a market analysis of your home. The evaluation should have a recommendation for the listing price for your home. He will arrive at that number by comparing your home to the most recent sales of comparable properties in your neighborhood. If you think his suggestion is lower than your expectation, ask questions.

Listen to your agent. He will point out the reasons for the difference what he feels your house will sell for less. Perhaps your kitchen and home décor have not been updated for 30 years, and your neighbor just did a complete kitchen and bath remodel. Your home may have an old furnace or a roof that is at the end of its lifecycle, and your neighbor’s property just had a high-efficiency heater installed this year and the house re-roofed the year before.

All aspects that determine value must be considered when setting the selling price. Listen to your agent. Your best interest is what will drive his success. You both have the same goal. Sell fast and for the best price.

Be Accommodating as Humanly Possible.

...

MN Home Selling Tips

MN Home Selling Tips

When your home is for sale, the most significant challenge is keeping it ready for people who want to drop in on the short notice. I’m not talking about a neighbor that might pop over unexpectedly to borrow a cup of flour. She won’t think twice about the dirty dishes in the sink and your unfolded laundry occupying prime real estate in the living room.

But those other people will care. They will look in all your corners, open all your cabinets, peer into your closets, and they will judge. They are picky and often quick to find fault and not shy about voicing their opinions about the condition of your home or your housekeeping habits. They are called buyers.

The Goal - Ready to Show at All Times

Before you listed your home, you developed a plan for preparing for this event with your Realtor. You got rid of clutter, you organized, and you cleaned. You repaired, refurbished, and recycled. You gave up a month of precious weekends, your book club night, and Netflix to get it done, and never hardly ever did a complaint escape your lips.

Now you have to do one thing. Keep it tidy, clean, and show-ready until you find a buyer. That is the one request your agent will make while your home is on the market. I know you have kids. You work. You have a dog who thinks it’s his job to leave copious piles of fur on every surface he touches. It’s not easy. I know too well. But, I also know it is not forever and can be done.

First Engage the Entire Family

Don’t, I repeat, do not attempt to keep your house in tip-top viewing condition without the help and cooperation of your entire family minus the pooch. He was born to shed, and you know it. Discuss the importance of Project Clean and Ready with your husband/wife/partner and kiddos. Make it a team sport.

Keeping tabs on each other will help everyone to be focused. Get everyone to own up to their messes, grownups, and kids alike, and take responsibility for cleaning them up as well. You have to adjust...

The 5 Day Plan To Turn Closet Chaos into Organized Bliss

The 5 Day Plan to Prepare you Home for Sale

With April just around the corner, our thoughts turn to spring. For many, spring not only signals the onset of warm weather, flowers, and birdsong but heralds the time to sweep out the winter detritus from hearth and home, otherwise known as Spring Cleaning. The first logical step in the process is removing all that stuff you really don’t want, don’t need, or never use, your clutter.

For those of you preparing to sell your home this spring, an absolute must for you is to take your cluttered chaos and turn it into organized harmony , but even if you are staying put, what better way to start the new season than with a home free of extra stuff to get in the way of your feng shui. Now that you are sold on the idea of paring down and organizing, there are a couple ways to approach the process of organizing your home.

  • the intense weekend (or two) decluttering boot camp
  • the series of multiple shorter de-junking sessions

Personally, since I am not a fan of pain and suffering, I prefer the “take-it-in-smaller-bites” process. Keep in mind, regardless of whether you opt for the intense program or the low impact version, you still need to perform the same tasks which are:

  • throwing out what is broken, expired, or otherwise useless
  • donating or selling what is in good, workable condition but is no longer wanted, needed or loved
  • organizing what is left in a clean space

Now that you have the basics,...

Top Realtors Sell Homes Faster

Top Realtors Sell Homes Faster

Selling your house is never easy. For most people, their home is their biggest asset. There's a lot to consider before putting your property on the market. The main question is, how long will it take to sell your house? The answer, of course, depends on several things. In this article, I will discuss why top Realtors in Minneapolis sell homes faster. 

Kitchen and living room staged by a top realtor in Mpls

5 Strategies For Selling Your Home Faster

There are several ways to speed up the selling process. One way is to get professional help from a top local real estate agent like Joe Houghton from Minnesota Property Group. 

If you're thinking about selling your home, here are five ways to sell your house faster using a real estate agent: 

1. A Real Estate Agent Can Get Your Home Prepped To Sell

Before you list your home for sale, make sure your home is prepped to sell. Check to see if your home is clean and organized. Remove clutter and unnecessary items. Clean out closets and cupboards. Make sure your home is in tip-top shape for photos to put on your online listings.

Some people use professional staging services while others do everything themselves. If you choose to stage your home yourself, there are several things you should consider doing to ensure your home sells quickly. When staging a home, you want to make sure it looks like a pristine "dream home." While including things like your Minnesota Twins signed poster may sound great to you, it may not be a homerun with selling your house. We recommend using a professional staging company instead of doing it yourself to sell your home faster.  

Another benefit to using a top local Realtor is that...