Selling your home can be surprisingly time-consuming and emotionally challenging. Strangers come in, poke around, critique your home, and oftentimes you may receive offers well below what you think your home’s true value is… Best to prepare yourself from the get-go, and have your home and your attitude prepared and in the best shape possible.

Below are 5 TIPS for getting the highest possible price for your home within a reasonable timeframe.

1. Kick emotions to the curb

When selling your home, it’s best to see yourself as a businessperson rather than as a homeowner. Looking at the transaction from a purely financial perspective helps detach from the emotional aspects of selling your home.

2. Hire an agent who works hard for your interests

Using market data, I will help you to set the right price for your home, strategically market your home and also play middleman, negotiator, and problem solver. In addition, I will handle the enormous amounts of paperwork and pitfalls involved in real estate transactions – ensuring a smooth, stress-free experience for you.

3. Price it right

But be open to negotiation. Smart buyers will negotiate and, if you want to complete the sale, you may have to play this game. It’s a good idea to list your home at a price that attracts buyers, while still leaving room for negotiation. I will work as if your money is my own to ensure you get top dollar for your home.

4. Make photos a priority

More than 90% of buyers start their home search online these days. Having multiple, crisp, clear photos – preferably taken by a professional – that showcase the entire house both inside and out will set your listing above the rest and help generate interest. An expert agent will be on top of this and ensure you have the right photos to highlight your home.

5. Primp, declutter, and stage

If you don’t clean, stage, and declutter your home, you’re leaving money on the table. I can help to point out areas that need work in case you’re too familiar to “see” the trouble spots. Decluttering, adding a fresh coat of paint, eliminating odors, and pumping up the curb appeal make a great first impression.

Few sales – if any – follow the perfect script. However, taking note of these five tips will go a long way toward helping you achieve the seamless, lucrative transaction every home seller hopes for. Please contact me today to get a complimentary Comparative Market Analysis for your home and let’s see if this is the time for you to make your move!

Jennifer Thomas, real estate broker @GRT HOMES