While the recent market downturn is a simple, common correction, there is no question that, in our area, houses are staying on the market a bit longer, and the competition for buyers is keener than ever. To make selling your home a little easier, try the following:

Hire a Professional
This is not the time to do it yourself! Part of the challenge to selling a house in this market is maximizing exposure; working with a professional real estate agent ensures that your house is listed on an MLS database so other real estate professionals can see it. In addition to the exposure, your real estate professional serves as an experienced marketer and negotiator who really knows what the real estate market in your community is like.

Ask the Right Price
A house priced just a tiny bit below market value really gets the interest of real estate professionals and buyers. If, in an attempt to buy yourself some "bargaining room", you price your house too high, some interested buyers simply won't ever visit. It is true that you can always reduce your asking price, but aggressive pricing early on is essential, particularly in the first 30 days. After your house has been on the market a month, interest has lagged and is difficult to recapture. The longer a property stays on the market, the fewer prospects it generates.

Start on the Outside
Have you ever arrived at a house for sale, only to keep right on driving when you see untamed shrubbery, a wild lawn, or one covered with leaves? The front of your house needs a fresh, neat appearance to maximize its "curb appeal"; mow and rake the lawn, trim the bushes, fix the broken mailbox, and make sure the bicycles and toys are put away. Have a new coat of paint applied to cover the faded or peeling paint on walls and trim.

"Stage" Your Home for a Quick Sale
Once your visitors are inside, you need to make sure they see your house at its very best. Get rid of the clutter, touch up paint where its needed, and have the carpets cleaned. Professional "house stagers" can be hired, and can do everything from offering suggestions to providing "staging furniture" and accessories to help sell your house. Also, consider having your house inspected, and make any recommended repairs. If, however, you decide not to fix any problems, inform the potential buyers of the situation and discount the cost of repairs from the asking price.

Offer Other Incentives
A few, well-chosen incentives may be all it takes to turn "just looking" into "we love it"! A carpet replacement or paint allowance may induce a buyer into overlooking worn or stained carpet or walls in need of paint, and some buyers might prefer to choose their own carpet or paint color. Consider offering to pay for a professional home inspection or a home warranty. If the market and your budget allow it, offer to pay some of the closing costs.

It's important not to be discouraged if you notice a lot of other houses for sale in your neighborhood. Starting off the right way, with a good-looking house, attractively priced and properly exposed can give you a distinct advantage the competitive market of today.