If your home has been on the market for a while with little to no progress, it may be time to reassess your strategy and identify potential issues holding back the sale. Here are some key guidelines to help make your home more appealing to potential buyers. Let’s take a closer look at them.

1. Look for a good real estate agent

The first step is to hire a real estate agent. The right agent will have in-depth knowledge of the local market and a proven track record of successful sales. Typically, the seller covers the commission for both their agent and the buyer’s agent. In return for the convenience and expertise an agent provides, you can expect to pay a commission ranging from 2% to 3% of your home’s selling price.

A real estate agent will guide you through the entire selling process. They’ll coordinate with a professional photographer to capture high-quality images of your home and handle price negotiations to secure the best deal. Additionally, they’ll prepare a compelling property listing, arrange and host showings, and market your home effectively to attract potential buyers.

• Price it just right

     To sell your home quickly, pricing it competitively is key. Overpricing can deter potential buyers exclude interested bidders, while also prolonging negotiations as buyers push for a price reduction.

Your real estate agent will analyze comparable properties in your area to determine a fair and realistic listing price. If time is of the essence, you might consider setting the price slightly below market value to generate more interest—and possibly ignite a bidding war. Should offers not materialize by a specific date, your agent can adjust the price accordingly.

It’s also important to consider local buyer search trends. For instance, listing your home at $202,000 might exclude buyers searching for properties under $200,000. Sacrificing a small amount upfront could result in greater visibility and more offers.

• Deep Clean and Declutter

To help buyers envision themselves in your home, it’s crucial to present a clean and inviting space. Start by giving your home a deep clean, decluttering every room, and putting away personal items. Many sellers opt to hire professional cleaners, especially before key showings, as it’s a common industry practice.

Rearrange furniture to create an open and welcoming layout, ensuring buyers can easily navigate the space without obstacles. Store away oversized or bulky furniture, as overcrowded rooms can appear smaller than they are.

You might also consider hiring a professional stager. They can highlight your home’s best features, make it more appealing to buyers, and help you secure a quick sale at the best possible price.

• Look after things that need quick repairs

With limited time for major renovations, focus on quick repairs that can prevent potential buyers from losing interest. Inspect your home and address simple fixes such as:

• Securing loose tiles in the bathroom or kitchen.
• Tightening loose hinges on doors and cabinets.
• Unclogging or repairing jammed drawer tracks.
• Fixing leaky faucets and ensuring the plumbing is in good working order.
• Removing carpet stains or refinishing hardwood floors.

If you have extra time and budget, consider making additional updates like replacing outdated fixtures, upgrading appliances, installing new cabinet hardware, or refreshing the interior with a coat of neutral paint. These small improvements can make a big difference in appealing to buyers.

• Make the deal attractive

To make your home and deal more appealing, consider adding incentives to entice buyers. Financial perks are particularly attractive, and if you’re in a hurry to sell, these options can help make your offer stand out. Examples include:

• Covering the buyer’s closing costs.
• Flexibly adjusting move-out or move-in dates to suit the buyer’s needs.
• Agreeing to complete all requested inspections.
• Covering the cost of addressing known issues that may concern the buyer.
• Providing a transferable home warranty, which offers discounted repair or replacement services for household systems and appliances.

These gestures can create a more favorable deal and attract serious buyers more quickly.

Selling a home can be a challenging process, especially when time is limited. Whether you need to move quickly due to a new job, a significant life change like divorce, or financial pressures, there are strategies to speed up the sale.

If your budget for preparing your home is limited, prioritize creating a strong first impression. Buyers often form opinions within seconds—both from the curb and as soon as they walk through the front door. Maximize those moments by working with an experienced agent, presenting a well-maintained home, and offering a compelling financial deal.