Your Home Value: Who Wants to Know?

By Karen Lawson
Home Worth Columnist

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How much is my home worth? This depends on who wants to know! At the end of a long work day, your home may seem priceless, but potential buyers will have a more objective view.

Working with Local Real Estate Pros
Real estate agents use statistical and historic data for home sales in your area to determine current market trends. Although your home may be attractive and well kept, if home values in your locale are slipping, this will almost certainly impact your home worth. If you want to sell your home quickly, it's best to engage the services of real estate professionals who do business in your neighborhood. Here are some more tips:

Be realistic: Your real estate agent can sell your home if it is competitively priced. Remember, potential buyers won't have the emotional investment in your home that you do. They are looking for a great home at a good price. Follow your agent's advice about pricing.

You don't have to go broke to get a great offer: Recently, home improvement shows have made much of "staging" your home for sale. This can really improve your chances of getting an offer. You don't have to buy new furniture, but simple steps such as removing clutter and having your home professionally cleaned can help potential buyers see your home as their new home.

Don't overwhelm buyers with personal memorabilia during open house:  Give potential buyers an opportunity to envision how they might make a home out of your house. Removing excessive personal effects can help buyers envision their belongings in your home, and can help make buyers feel welcome in your space.

Working with your real estate agent and showing your home at its best can help you make the most of your home's value.

About the Author
Karen Lawson is a freelance writer with extensive experience in mortgage banking. She holds BA and MA degrees in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.