Spring Tips for Selling Your Home in the Albany Real Estate Market

Spring is traditionally the busiest time of year for home sales, and the Albany real estate market is no exception. In fact, some predict that the spring home-selling season may start earlier and be even livelier this year, as homebuyers act to buy before interest rates or home prices rise.

While you’re more likely to receive top dollar for your East Greenbush, Schenectady or Niskayuna home this spring, you also need to be prepared for strong competition. Here are 5 things you can do right now to help sell your home in the spring real estate market.

1. Make a Good First Impression

Did you know that most homebuyers decide in the first 60 seconds whether or not they would consider buying your home? Curb appeal always has, and always will matter, regardless of the season. Trim the hedges and invest in frost-resistant plants. Yellow flowers are believed to stimulate buying and induce feelings of happiness, so consider potted tulips and daffodils that can be brought inside if there’s a late frost. Paint the front door and power wash the exterior of your home, as well as the driveway, front walk and porch.

2. Clear Away the Clutter

Ever notice that model homes and open houses always look neat and perfect? Both your rooms and closets look bigger when there’s less clutter, so pare down your possessions and re-organize your closets. Since the end game is to sell, pack and eventually move, consider packing up anything you aren’t currently using now. Box up your bulky winter wardrobe and donate toys that the kids have outgrown. Once your home is on the market, you’ll need to keep it as neat as possible. Click for more staging tips for Spring.

3. Make Necessary Home Repairs

While it’s not pertinent to take on major renovations that won’t be recouped in your purchase price, minor do-it-yourself repairs will make your home more appealing. Simply replacing the caulk in your bathroom or cleaning the grout between your kitchen tiles adds a big wow factor. Updated light fixtures and ceiling fans can renew your space, and a fresh coat of paint, just on the trim, can give the illusion that the whole room has been painted.

4. Make Sure the Price is Right

The spring home-buying season is notoriously hot, but buyers still insist on good deals. Even in a seller’s market, overpriced homes won’t sell. Likewise, pricing your home too low can cause buyers to question what is wrong with it. When it comes to pricing, make sure to compare your house with similar recently-sold properties in your area to ensure your price is competitive. Seek the advice of a local real estate agent, trust their experience, and be realistic.

5. Choose the Right Real Estate Agent

It’s important to find an agent with a great marketing plan and deep local knowledge, who can present you with a detailed market analysis. Since most home buyers start their search online, make sure to get your house listed on multiple websites, preferably with a set of professional photos, detailed descriptions and a virtual tour. And don’t forget to plan open houses with your real estate agent, too.

Looking for a listing agent in the Albany area? Contact the experts at CM Fox Real Estate. We have over 50 real estate agents serving Albany, Guilderland, Latham, Colonie and the entire Capital Region of New York. Call (518) 861-7030 or contact us today.