If someone were to take a survey of home sellers, I am sure that two of their chief concerns would be "how to get the highest price for my house" and "how to sell my house quickly." After being in real estate in Southern California for over 33 years, I have seen many home sellers and home buyers grapple with these issues. Continuing from Part I: How to Get the Highest Price for My Home, in Part II of this article below, I'd like to share some of my thoughts on how to sell your home in the fastest possible time.

HOW TO SELL YOUR HOUSE QUICKLY

Pride of Ownership

The most important quality that buyers look for in a potential home is "pride of ownership." When there is pride of ownership virtually all buyers recognize it's value, and most buyers will pay for it. When selling your home, be certain it reflects value for its asking price. Buyers will often pay full price for such a home, and may even compete to buy it!

Pride of ownership is most easily displayed to buyers (and agents) through the condition of the house and the information about the house that the seller is willing and able to share with potential buyers. When both of these elements combine then you, the seller, are prepared for a quick sale.

If you plan to sell your home, take time to do your homework first. Before the first buyer ever sees your home, it is critical that you carry out two tasks that could result in an immediate sale at full price.

Maintain Your Home in Model Condition

If your home is in need of repair or maintenance, put your home in model home condition. Ask your agent to help compile a list of improvements which will excite prospective buyers - and real estate agents. To achieve an early sale, everything on the list should be completed before your first showing. I repeat - don't allow your home to be shown until all improvements have been completed!

Why is this so important? Once your home is on the market, the first people to see it are likely to be other real estate agents. An "agent open house" or "office tour" is one method your agent may employ to gain exposure for the property.

If other agents see unsightly carpet, or sense that pride of ownership is absent, they may never return with their buyers. Once that happens, you will have lost one of the best sources of ready buyers.

The more obvious impact of offering a spotless home in model home condition is the effect it will have on families who see it. They want to buy a beautiful home, so be sure that's what you have to offer.

Most homebuyers would agree that a home which sparkles with pride of ownership is considered a real prize, while one which shows evidence of abuse is to be avoided at any cost. In fact, buyers often compete to purchase homes which offer top condition and real value in exchange for their asking price.

Is there a message in all this for those planning to sell their home? You bet there is! Don't take shortcuts when selling your home. Don't try to gloss over minor defects, nor ignore major ones. Today's homebuyers are sophisticated, and quickly recognize poor quality.

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