Selling your home in Northern Virginia

Your objective is to sell for the highest value, in the shortest amount of time and with the least hassle to you. Most sellers find it difficult to be completely objective about the value of their home. That's why you need an objective, unbiased third party to help take the emotion out of what might be the most substantial business decision you make. These are three most important steps to take:

• Get the inside and outside of your home in show condition. First impressions are everything. Don't go to market until it is ready. See "Getting Ready to Sell" for our advice.
• A thorough market analysis of your home in its location and general market conditions are essential. See "Pricing it Right" for a complete discussion of this process and why it is so imortant.
• Develop a negotiating strategy with your REALTOR® before you list. Knowing what is important and what you are willing to accept is essential. Your REALTOR® can drive the hard bargaining for you but you need to be flexible and realistic. Win-Win is the goal. Remember, the buyer is trying to get the best property at the least cost. If you stay reasonable and realistic, both can achieve their objectives.

You will find several excellent resources here to help including our own Home Selling Guide. The standard questions we commomly get from sellers:

• What do I need to do to get it in show condition?
• Should I spend money to fix the things that I know are wrong?
• Should we do some remodeling before we sell to get a higher price?
• Should I consent to a home inspection contingency?
• What are the other contract contingencies I should be concerned about?
• What is my home or property worth?
• How do we attract buyers?
• Will it sell quickly?
• What is the right marketing plan?
• Is web advertising effective?
• Should I try to sell it myself?
• What is it going to cost?
• How do we keep track of all the details?
• We are moving out of the area. Where do I find help?

These are all valid questions. In some cases. there are not easy answers. We can make recommendations but, in the end it depends on what you are willing to do. There are several steps that can be taken before you list your home to maximize its appeal to potential buyers, position it competitively in the market and help you get the best price. Here are the first eight.