Most homeowners consider their home to be one of their biggest assets. So when it comes time to sell it you need to have a smart approach. The guidance of a real estate professional who knows the market will help ensure that you have a successful transaction.

There may not be a better time to sell your home. Inventory levels are low and as a result home prices are rising. However, if you do not take the time to protect your investment and avoid some common mistakes that sellers make, you run the risk of not maximizing your bottom line. Here are some tips to increase your chances of obtaining a quick sale and top dollar for your home:

Price Your Home Competitively: Overpricing your home can leave it lingering on the market. If your home sits on the MLS too long buyers may think that there is something wrong with it or flawed somehow. These properties usually sell at a lower price point than they would have if they were priced right from the beginning.

Your real estate professional will provide you with a Comparative Market Analysis. A CMA can assist you in establishing a competitive price. You can use this report to compare your home’s sale price against home’s that have recently sold in your neighbourhood that are similar in size, age, bedrooms, bathrooms and much more.

Showcase Your Home: It is important that prospective buyers are able to imagine themselves living in your home. This means that you need to depersonalize your home by taking down any family pictures and knick-knacks from the walls. Thoroughly clean kitchens, bathrooms, etc. Remove clutter, fix any visible issues and a fresh coat of neutral paint will go a long way. A more elaborate form of showcasing your home is to hire a professional home stager. Staged homes can sell up to five times faster than non-staged homes.

Showing Etiquette: Sellers can put a fork in the works by hanging around and lingering during open houses and showings. This can make potential buyers uncomfortable and feel like they are intruding on your home. This usually leads buyers to an early exit and missed opportunities for the seller.

Remember Curb Appeal: Make a strong first impression by sprucing up your front yard and entryway. Replace the house numbers and exterior light fixtures if necessary. Keep the lawn mowed, the yard free of clutter and toys, and the plants well maintained.

Every seller needs a competitive edge in today’s market. By being prepared for selling prior to listing, you are maximizing your chances of a quick and successful sale