2: Is Your Home Sellable?
You're ready to sell your home, but how do you know if potential buyers will love it?
In real estate, we call this the "sale-ability" factor. It plays a big role when comparing your home to recent sales in Hemet and San Jacinto and helps determine the right price to attract buyers.
Before listing, you and your agent will consider key factors that influence pricing. The condition and location of your home have the biggest impact on both price and time on the market. And if you own a condo, additional factors can come into play.
No one wants their home sitting unsold for weeks or months, only to end up taking it off the market. A listing that lingers too long can become "tainted," making buyers wonder, "What's wrong with it?" To avoid this, take an honest look at your home’s sale-ability with your agent and decide what needs improvement.
Key Factors That Affect Your Home’s Sale-Ability
Condition
- A well-maintained, move-in-ready home attracts more buyers. If neighboring homes that sold recently have updated kitchens and bathrooms, and yours doesn’t, your pricing needs to reflect that. Decide if you're willing to sell "as is."
- Unique features can work in your favor. A finished basement, large patio, new windows, or hidden hardwood floors could be selling points.
- More serious issues—like water damage, termites, or foundation problems—must be disclosed. Consider fixing them or adjusting your price accordingly.
- Layout matters. An awkward kitchen, a steep front entrance, or a sloped backyard can turn buyers away. Homeowners often get used to a home's quirks, but buyers will notice them right away.
Next week’s article will focus on specific projects that can help your home shine for buyers. Stay tuned!
Location
- Location can be a major selling point—or a challenge. Some neighborhoods in Hemet and San Jacinto are highly desirable, while others may require a competitive price to attract buyers.
- External factors matter. Is your home near a school, fire station, or busy street? Proximity to power lines or industrial areas can impact pricing.
- Highlight positives! A cul-de-sac, stunning view, well-rated school district, or nearby park can be strong selling points.
- New developments in the area can be a factor. Will they bring more traffic, or will they add new stores and amenities that increase property values?
Timing
- Spring is typically the busiest selling season, but more competition means you need to stand out.
- Listing around the holidays or in winter often results in longer market times and lower prices. However, relisting the same home in spring can lead to a quicker sale at a higher price.
Condo Rules and Regulations
- Condo sales come with extra considerations, especially regarding the financial health of the association.
- Special assessments and maintenance issues can deter buyers. A well-run condo association makes a big difference.
- Owner occupancy rates matter. Lenders prefer buildings where most units are owner-occupied rather than investor-owned.
- If one entity owns more than 10% of the units, lenders may reject buyers, reducing the pool of potential buyers and affecting sale price.
Final Thoughts
Before listing your home in Hemet or San Jacinto, take the time to assess its condition, location, and timing. Work with your agent to ensure it's priced right and ready for buyers. Next week, we'll dive into the best improvements that help homes sell faster and for more money—so don’t miss it!
#movewithjudith
