We’re all ready to wave goodbye to 2020, and say hello to a new year. With the coronavirus pandemic still on everyone’s minds, it can be tricky to plan the year ahead. But if you’re considering selling your home in 2021, it might just be the right time. The pandemic impacted the housing market just as it did nearly every other industry—but not necessarily for the worst. Although inventory has declined, demand has remained relatively steady. In fact, demand for housing may even be rising as a result of all-time low interest rates, encouraging first-time homebuyers to take the leap. Use the next several months to plan your move, so you can get the most for your home and find the perfect new place to live. If you’re getting ready to retire or looking for a gated community, check out the Kiawah Island homes for sale. Then, read upon our guide to selling in the upcoming year.
Find a Trusted Real Estate Agent
Working with a real estate agent is advantageous, particularly in these unprecedented times because he or she can walk you through changes, such as “Coronavirus Clauses” on lending agreements, and advise you on the best way to show your property. Find an agent you trust and begin devising a strategy for selling your home and finding a new property to fall in love with. If you are interested in the Lowcountry area, look into some Charleston realty companies that can help find the perfect property for the right price.
Add Enticing Features to Your Home
If you’re not quite ready to sell your home, but you’re thinking ahead, this is the perfect opportunity to revamp some parts of your home to make it more valuable and attractive to potential buyers. Because of the pandemic, more people than ever are working from home, which makes a property with a home office all the more appealing. If you have an extra room in your house that’s been used for storage or an unnecessary bedroom, consider finishing this area of the house and converting it into an office to help sell the property. Perhaps you have an unfinished basement or attic that can be converted into additional space. Take the time to do the math and consider whether investing in a few upgrades may pay off in the long run.
Start Spring Cleaning Early
As you prepare to sell your home in the coming year, use this time to begin clearing out old belongings. This will help speed up the moving process once your house has sold and keep your home looking immaculate during showings. Although it is a big project to take on, clearing out some of the stuff in your home is an important step prior to moving out. Start by decluttering the house and yard, creating a more spacious looking property that will attract a greater number of buyers.
Hire Someone to Stage and Photograph Your House
You want potential buyers to be able to envision themselves in your home, which is why hiring a home stager is a great idea because they have the knowledge and skills to arrange your home in the most visually appealing way. You want buyers to be able to look at the photographs and wish they lived there. Stagers know how to arrange furniture, specifically place decorations and use a mixture of fabrics and colors to create a cohesive ambiance in the home that elevates your interior design and attracts potential buyers. Once you’ve hired someone to stage the house, you’ll want to use a professional photographer who can capture 3d virtual home tours at all the right lighting and angles to make your home look as beautiful as possible.
Use Virtual Tours
With people making an effort to follow social distancing guidelines, regular open houses seem to be a thing of the past—at least for now. Many states have different regulations and restrictions in place, but for the most part, realtors are only hosting open houses by appointment. And, most buyers are actually doing much of their preliminary research online, only attending open houses if they are further along the sales funnel and more serious about buying. Because so many people are turning to the internet for their real estate research, it’s more important than ever to consider including a virtual tour on your listing because it allows people to get a more comprehensive view of the house––which may persuade them to request an in-person visit. You should also try sharing your listing on social media to further spread the word.
Require Masks and Gloves During In-Person Visits
Before a buyer will close on a house, they are going to want to see the property in person. Most sellers are being more cautious about allowing strangers into their homes, so it’s a good idea for you to require masks and gloves during in-person visits to further protect you, your family and the potential buyers.
New Year, New You, New Home
If you’re preparing to sell your home in the coming year, there are some factors you should keep in mind. With housing in high demand but inventory falling well below normal standards, you have an advantage as the seller and may be able to secure a higher price than you could have pre-pandemic. However, keep this in mind when you’re looking for your new home as you may notice prices slightly above average. The record low interest rates are an enticing reason for many people to buy, even with higher demand and prices, because it will likely cost you less money in the long run. Take the next few months to improve your home, prepare your virtual tour and professional photos and research places you may want to relocate to, like one of the gorgeous Kiawah Island homes for sale. We know you’ll find the perfect place for you and your family.
