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elling your home can be a daunting task, with numerous decisions to make and no clear answers. The timing of listing your home, the repairs needed before putting it on the market, and pricing it correctly all impact how long it stays on the market and whether you get a good sale price.
Historically, spring and summer are the best times to sell a home, with May being the most lucrative month. According to Zillow's analysis of 2024 data, homes listed in May sold for 1.6% more than those listed at other times, translating to an additional $5,600 on average.
When it comes to listing your home, Thursday is the best day, as it allows buyers to view properties over the weekend when they're less busy. Interest rate fluctuations also influence the market, with rising rates decreasing buying power and lower rates attracting more buyers.
Before listing your home, consider addressing health and safety issues, such as a rotting deck or mold in a crawl space, which can be uncovered during a buyer's inspection and lead to withdrawn offers. Cosmetic updates like repainting the front door, planting new bushes, or replacing old fixtures can also boost curb appeal.
Inside your home, focus on low-cost fixes that create a good impression, such as updating broken fixtures, painting walls, and cleaning carpets. Avoid expensive renovations, as they may not pay off when selling your home.
Pricing your home depends on its size, condition, and local market trends. Look at recent sales of comparable homes to determine a fair price. A real estate agent or Realtor can guide you through the process and provide expert advice on pricing and local conditions.
Ultimately, understanding local market conditions is crucial when selling your home. Work with a real estate agent or Realtor to get personalized guidance throughout the selling process.
