In seller’s markets, good marketing can give you higher prices. It could eitherbe sold or expired. Good marketing might not sell you house but it will make the phone ring.
1. Take Photos of Your House
Good photos are really helpful because a lot of home buyers tend to search homes online. Remember that buyers are usually visual. Here are some following tips that you should follow:
FRONT VIEW:
• Crop out sidewalks and streets.
• Remove vehicles from driveway / front of home.
• Shoot up-close & angled photos.
• Avoid shade on the house.
• Clear away vegetation blocking front door or path to door.
EXTERIOR VIEW:
• Emphasize space and shoot long.
• Mow the lawn & trim bushes.
• Remove evidence of pets.
• Put away children’s toys.
• Avoid shooting into the sun.
INTERIOR VIEW:
• Open drapes & blinds
• Turn on lights.
• Focus on interesting details like the condition of a wood floor or a fireplace mantle.
• Remove trash cans & close toilet lids in bathrooms.
• Use floral arrangements in kitchens & dining rooms.
• Avoid shooting into mirrors because your image will reflect.
2. Print Advertising
This is for buyers who read newspapers all the time.
• Major newspapers. Find out which days pull the most readers. Typically it’s Sunday but some newspapers also publish “picture classifieds” on other days.
• Local newspapers. You can probably run a larger ad for less money that will more closely target those looking in your area.
• Real estate publications. Check on press date; can you wait?
• Every Web site you can find. Most online listings are free.
3. Open Houses
Not every home is suitable for an open house due to location or other factors, and sometimes the only way to determine that is to try it. If nobody comes, that’s probably a good indication. However, if your home is located near a high traffic area where buyers often swarm, then it’s a good candidate.
• Place open house signs throughout the area directing buyers.
• Advertise in the newspaper.
• Advertise open house times online.
• Invite the neighbors; they’re going to come anyway.
4. Send E-Flyers
Technology has made it very easy to create and send electronic flyers. You can also include multiple photographs of your house. Costs vary but it’s generally less than $100 to produce. Here are ideas for recipients:
• Real estate agents who sell in your area.
• Friends, family and coworkers.
• Out-of-area brokers and agents who represent buyers in your area.
