Now, more than ever, people are finding success selling their homes online. But with the online marketplace being so hot, you are likely to face some stiff competition! We have put together our favorite tips to help you stand out and sell your home fast!
Go Where The Buyers Are:
As the world becomes increasingly digital, online listing portals have become a vital tool for real estate marketing. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which platform to use. However, a simple search for listings in your area can provide some valuable insight.
Upon conducting a search, it’s likely that two major players in the market, Zillow and Trulia, will appear at the top of the search results. These platforms have proven to be highly effective in generating real estate traffic and have become household names in the industry.
Even if you have listed your property on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), it is crucial to ensure that it is being showcased effectively on these major sites. Regardless of whether you are advertising with them, it is important to capitalize on the opportunity to reach a wider audience and increase the visibility of your property.
In today’s competitive market, it’s not enough to simply list your property and hope for the best. By taking advantage of the powerful marketing tools offered by top online listing portals, you can give your property the exposure it deserves and increase your chances of finding the right buyer or tenant. So, make sure to showcase your properties well on these platforms and stay ahead of the game!
There are services that will syndicate your listing to many top sites, so you only need to enter your information once. However, make sure to check your listing on all sites in which it was syndicated. Automation can sometimes lead to the data being jumbled.
Consider Premium Listings:
When you do a property search on any major website, you will likely see certain properties at the top time and time again. They paid to get that top spot. Just as the Agents you see over and over again paid to put their name first. If you want to give your property instant traction, it can be worth the extra cost to put your listing at the top.
Create a Property Specific Website:
A unique and interesting way to sell your home using the internet would be to create a property specific website. A basic website and domain won’t cost you much to get started. With a little SEO, content, and imagery, you can quickly build a site to rival the big advertisers when it comes to showcasing your house!
Use Amazing Photos:
The old adage that “a picture is worth a thousand words” could not be more true when it comes to real estate. The way you describe your property can make all the difference in attracting potential buyers. Using words like “stunning, spacious and immaculate” can create a positive image of your home in the buyer’s mind. On the other hand, using negative words like “dated, cramped and dingy” can instantly turn them off.
In addition to using the right words, it is important to present your property in the best possible light. When buyers view photos of your home, it can make or break their decision to pursue it further. Personal belongings and clutter can be distracting, so it’s best to pack away any knick-knacks and decorative items before taking photos. This will allow buyers to picture themselves living in the space, rather than being distracted by your personal style.
Hiring a professional photographer is also a great way to ensure that your property is showcased in the best possible way. A professional photographer can capture the true essence of your home and create images that are both inviting and compelling. Take a look at other listings in your area and note the ones with professional photos versus those with amateur snapshots taken from a cell phone.
Use an Accurate Description of the Property:
When it comes to listing your property, it’s important to provide as much detailed and accurate information as possible. This includes not only highlighting the positive features of your property but also disclosing any defects or issues.
By being transparent about any defects, you can avoid potential legal issues down the line and establish trust with potential buyers or tenants. It’s better to disclose any issues upfront rather than to have them discovered later on and risk losing the sale or tenant.
At the same time, don’t overlook the small details that could be a selling point for a certain buyer. If you recently re-done the roof, be sure to mention it in your listing. If you have a large and bright kitchen, highlight it as a feature. The more details you provide, the better chance you have of attracting the right buyer or tenant.
In addition to describing the property, it’s also helpful to include high-quality photos and even virtual tours if possible. This allows potential buyers or tenants to get a better sense of the property and envision themselves living in the space.
Overall, providing detailed and accurate information about your property is essential in attracting the right buyer or tenant and closing the deal.
Watch Your Words:
When people are house hunting, the listings can all begin sounding alike and running together. A lack of adjectives will cause every property to be “beautiful” and “cozy.” Don’t blend in with the crowd! Use colorful language to make your listing stand out from the rest. Don’t just gloss over the ad, using generic words to describe your property.
Use Data To:
Acquiring, understanding and using data will almost guarantee you a quick sale. Using data, you will be able to:
- Run comps of recently sold properties in the area.
- Locate and contact the best agents in town. Online reviews will ensure you find the agent that is best for you!
- Study market trends for real estate in your area. Ask questions such as: when is the best time of year to sell my Southwest Michigan house? What are the current buyer demographics?