Can I sell my house on my own?

Yes, you can certainly try to sell your home yourself. But if you do, be sure you are aware of what’s involved. First, you will need to determine an accurate price for your home, to maximize the value without overpricing it. You will need to pay for advertising and signage, answer calls, and host open houses during the selling period. You should also know how to write a real estate contract and be aware of what’s needed in a closing.

Working with a Realtor can save you time and ensure you get the most value from your home. At Trails West Eagle Bend, we know the market, we know how to price, advertise and close a transaction, and we are in constant touch with hundreds of buyers. And we are always at your service to answer questions and get the best possible results for you.

What are the main selling features of a home?

Every home has different features that make it appealing. But generally, there are several main points that influence the sale of a home: price, location, size and condition of a home, and amenities. How your home is marketed and advertised also has an impact on how it sells. Cosmetic changes such as new paint and landscaping can also make a difference.

What should I do to get my house ready to sell?

First impressions are important. So make your house look as appealing and spacious as possible. Clean it thoroughly from top to bottom, including garage, attic and crawlspace. Remove all the clutter, so that prospective buyers can envision their own furniture and items in the home. Paint areas that need it, shampoo carpets or replace them if needed, and re-grout tile walls and floors. Repair anything that needs fixing and trim bushes and trees so the yard looks good. If you make it as move-in ready as possible, more potential buyers will be attracted to it.

Can I get a higher price for my home with regular maintenance?

You bet. A home that has been kept in good shape will draw more interest and a higher price than a similar home that needs some work. And making home improvements such as remodeling a basement helps even more. Keeping up with maintenance, even if it’s just minor repairs and upkeep, can save you time, money and headaches when you get ready to sell your home. And once you are in the habit of it, it’s easy. If you don’t want to do it yourself, hire it out. Usually, the cost will be more than covered by the higher price you can charge when you sell.

What should I do to maintain my home?

There are many things you can do to keep your home in good shape. Be sure to save receipts if you hire professionals and keep a maintenance record. It may come in handy when you get ready to sell. Buyers like to see proof that the home has been well maintained.

• Keep drains running smoothly. Check all pipes and traps.
• Test all alarms and change batteries if needed.
• Make sure your doorbell works.
• Inspect for any damp spots, especially in corners and basements.
• Wrap foam rubber insulation around cold-water pipes.
• Make sure stairway handrails and posts are secure.
• Check all windows to see they open and close well.
• Lubricate door hinges so they don’t squeak.
• Fill and seal driveway cracks.
• Clean all your rain gutters.
• Replace any loose or missing roof shingles.

How do I determine the appropriate price for my home?

It depends on market conditions, demand and the quality of your home in comparison to others in your area. You may think your home is worth more (or less) than it actually is. That’s why it helps to consult with an objective, experienced real estate professional. We can help you determine a fair market value, based on comparable homes that have recently sold in your neighborhood. We can also provide a comparative market analysis on homes purchased in your area, including the selling price and how long they were on the market.

How do I get connected with a good real estate agent?

One simple way to start is to look at yard signs in your neighborhood. See what real estate companies have properties in the area (an indication they know your area well). Also, check their websites and advertising to get an idea of what their company is like. Ask relatives and friends if they have recommendations. You can also call the Better Business Bureau to see if there have been any complaints lodged against a firm. Don’t settle on the first real estate person you meet if you’re uncomfortable for any reason. You want to be able to trust the person and work well together.

Why go with a Realtor from Trails West Eagle Bend?

We are dedicated, experienced professionals who have helped people sells homes of all kinds for many years. We know the entire Flathead Valley like the backs of our hands and we have thousands of connections in the area. Buyers often come to us because of our knowledge of the Flathead Valley and the wide range of properties we have available. We can direct these buyers to you. Most important, all of us at Trails West Eagle Bend absolutely love what we do and we’ll go beyond the call to get you the results you want. It’s our passion and our promise!