Most homeowners never really consider the cost when it comes time to sell a Dallas home, and there are costs involved. If you’re like most people, you are seeing dollar signs based on your mortgage balance, and your home’s estimated value. As experienced Flower Mound real estate agents, we want to enlighten you about some of the substantial costs you may face in selling your home – and how you can reduce these costs.
Before investing thousands in renovations, consult with your realtor. Certainly it would increase the appeal and value of your home to remodel the kitchen or a bathroom, but it may not be necessary. Clearing the clutter, ridding your home of too many personal items such as photos, organizing the closets, painting, replacing drawer pulls and cabinet knobs, and deep cleaning can go a long way in boosting your home’s appeal to potential buyers.
Cut spending when your home goes on the market. In order to sell your home quickly, it’s important for your realtor to show it as often as possible. Instead of boarding your pet, arrange for a friend or family member to keep it during showings, or take it with you when possible. Plan ahead so that you will be prepared if your home is shown during meal time, and it’s impossible to cook. Instead of spending a lot of money eating out, take a few “picnic” items with you such as a loaf of bread, cheese, fruit, crackers, etc. Or better yet, make plans to eat with friends and help with the cooking. Eating out at restaurants can get very expensive!
Some costs that aren’t negotiable include unpaid property taxes, the balance on your home loan, even homeowner association dues that may be outstanding. However, you may be able to negotiate closing costs, and in most cases buyers pay most of this cost.
Commissions paid to your listing agent may also be negotiable, however it is important to keep in mind the expertise and quality of your agent. While commissions vary and go up to about 6% of the sale price, remember that when you work with a capable realtor, it may be possible to get more for your home than you initially thought.
At Team Nelson, our Dallas real estate agents want to help sellers keep costs as low as possible, however it is important to keep in mind that there are costs associated with selling a home. Call us today for more tips on how to keep costs down.
