Selling a Home

Casting for your dream buyer

Before implementing any marketing strategies, the first step is to go through the discovery process. This involves determining the fair market value, understanding current market conditions, and reviewing various factors to prepare for the sale.

When the time comes to sell your home, the most crucial decision beyond choosing a realtor is determining the listing price. Rabe’s goal is to provide exceptional customer service while securing the best possible price within your preferred time frame. To achieve this, he collaborates closely with you to establish the optimal price, drawing on recent market statistics and his extensive experience.

The top priority before listing your home is conducting a thorough Comparable Market Analysis (CMA). This analysis considers recent sales in your neighborhood, focusing on properties that closely resemble yours. Rabe uses this approach because it mirrors the methodology utilized by appraisers to assess your home’s value. In instances where the buyer requires a mortgage, an appraisal is mandatory. By employing this method, he can ensure that your home is accurately priced in alignment with current market conditions, preventing overpricing.

Additionally, Rabe will assess the current inventory on the market. Examining what’s currently available helps determine whether your home will be priced above or below your closest competitors. While your home may not be identical to others, most buyers consider several properties before making a decision. Thus, evaluating other available properties can assist in pricing your home to sell within your desired time frame. While it’s essential to consider your competition, the primary factor influencing your home’s price should be recently closed sales.

The “To-Do” List

A First Impression

Refresh your front door with a new coat of paint and replace your front door mat. Create a colorful entrance with bright annuals and perennials to attract attention from the street. Depending on the season, consider light decorations like pumpkins and gourds for autumn or tulips in oversized pots for early spring. Your home’s front door makes a lasting first impression on buyers as they enter. Make it shine!

Pride-of-Ownership

Buyers scrutinize homes, especially kitchens and bathrooms. There are a few simple fixes to create a fresh, clean visual. Re-caulk and touch up paint in these high-use spaces to give them a refreshed look. Run a carpet cleaner over carpets to remove odors and stains. Tidy each room, including cabinets, closets, and the garage, before showing. While this can seem like a lot, I partner with cleaning companies and handypersons to help tackle the list!

notice the details

Clear any debris and clutter from the walkway and yard, mow the lawn, and prune the hedges. Fix any broken screens, doorbells, roof tiles, shingles, and outdoor lighting. Repair or replace outdated hardware throughout the house—a new set of doorknobs can make a significant difference. Also, consider updating faucets, towel bars, and curtain rods—fixtures that are highly visible to homebuyers. These inexpensive touch-ups can make a huge impact.

Curate the Vibe

The right window treatments can significantly enhance natural light, highlight views, and impact a room's temperature by controlling the amount of light that enters the space. Well-chosen curtains, blinds, or shades can make a room feel more inviting, spacious, and comfortable. Adjust window treatments appropriately when showing your home at different times of the day. In the morning, open curtains and blinds to let in the fresh, natural light and create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. In the afternoon, consider partially closing them to filter the light and prevent any harsh glare.

the Light Touch

Consider updating decorative light fixtures that no longer match your home's fresh, clean look. Ensure all lights have working bulbs, focusing on ambient lighting to fill a room and task lighting for spaces like a reading nook or office. Use accent lighting to highlight focal points, such as artwork above a mantle, to draw the eye.

Declutter and pick up

Don't leave children's toys and pet belongings out in the open during showings and open houses; the goal is for buyers to envision themselves living in the home. Store litter boxes, pet dishes, toys, animal crates, and kids' entertainment in less conspicuous areas such as closets, the garage, or an outdoor storage shed before each showing. Keep the backyard looking spacious and functional by picking up after your pets, ensuring buyers feel comfortable touring the yard.

Marketing your home

Digital billboard will showcase your home! Provide more exposure to potential buyers. Located in a high traffic area with exposure to State Hwy 10 AND County Hwy J in Stevens Point. Your home will have an eye catching advertisement on our billboard until you accept an offer!

Photos are the #1 thing buyers want to see when home searching! I use HD Photography on each of my listings and professional video walk through tours, with drone photography/videography available depending on location.

I share updates on each of my listings - from Just Listed to Sold - on my social media accounts! My postings are designed to get more buyers to your listing! Find me on Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube!