When it comes to selling your home, being proactive rather than reactive can make all the difference in maximizing your investment. Shey, a seasoned real estate agent on our team, with over 10 years of experience in the Portland market, sat down with Johnny from the Hatch Homes Group to discuss key strategies for preparing your home to hit the market. Whether you’re thinking about selling soon or just want to be prepared, Shey’s advice is packed with valuable insights.
Be Proactive, Not Reactive
As Shey emphasizes, “If you want to lose money selling your house, be reactive. But if you want to make money, be proactive.” One of the most critical steps to avoid surprises during the transaction process is conducting a pre-inspection. A pre-inspection allows sellers to identify any structural, safety, or health-related issues, such as a roof that needs replacing or sewer line problems, before they become deal-breakers.
While some homeowners worry about the need to disclose issues found during a pre-inspection, Shey believes it’s better to know about potential problems upfront. “By understanding the big-ticket items, you can budget accordingly and avoid unexpected expenses during the sale process,” Shey explains. This transparency also helps avoid failed sales, which can tarnish a home’s reputation.
As Johnny adds, “Every buyer sees a house come back on the market and immediately asks, ‘What’s wrong with it?’” Avoiding these pitfalls by getting ahead of potential problems can help keep the sale process smooth and minimize buyer concerns.
Dealing with Big-Ticket Items
One concern many homeowners have is what to do if a pre-inspection reveals costly repairs they can’t afford upfront. Shey offers practical advice, suggesting, “At the very least, get quotes for those repairs.” By knowing the cost, sellers can have control over negotiations and may even find contractors willing to be paid from the proceeds of the sale.
Cosmetic Updates Matter Too
In addition to addressing structural issues, Shey recommends cosmetic improvements to make your home more appealing to buyers. “Interior paint colors, deferred plumbing issues, or even the smell of fresh paint can turn people away if not addressed properly,” he says. Timing is key here—plan ahead so that freshly painted rooms have time to air out and don’t overwhelm potential buyers with strong odors.
Marketing: Tell a Story
Great marketing is more than just taking a few nice photos. Shey stresses the importance of telling the story of your home through professional photography, video, and drone footage when appropriate. “Understand your audience and what makes your property special,” Shey says. This storytelling element can help differentiate your home from others on the market, whether it’s a scenic property with a river running through it or a cozy suburban home near parks.
Johnny agrees, adding, “Even with good photos, if the story is lost, the property might not stand out.” That’s why Hatch Homes Group invests time in working with sellers to create a marketing plan that highlights what makes their home and neighborhood unique.
Staging: A Crucial Step
First impressions matter, and staging is key to creating a welcoming environment. Whether you’re selling a condo or a larger home, staging helps potential buyers envision themselves living in the space. Shey notes that even minimal staging can transform a home, explaining that it’s about “creating a sense of home, but not too cluttered.”
Sellers are often tempted to leave their homes empty, thinking buyers will better visualize their own belongings in the space. However, as Johnny points out, this approach usually backfires. “An empty space can feel cold, echoey, and uninviting,” he says. Staging not only helps buyers imagine how they could use the space but also creates a warmer, more inviting atmosphere during showings. Shey backs this up, stating, “Staged homes sell faster, and it’s worth the investment.”
Pricing Strategy: Timing is Everything
Pricing your home correctly is another essential component of a successful sale. “Pricing is not just about picking a number. It takes research,” Shey explains. Understanding the market, timing, and seasonal trends are all vital to determining the right price. For example, spring tends to be a hotter market, but it’s important to stay on top of local trends, which can vary from year to year.
Overpricing can lead to your home sitting on the market for too long, while underpricing might mean you’re not getting the best return on your investment. “If you price too high, you’ll end up chasing the market down, but if you price too low, you could miss out on maximizing your sale,” Shey advises. That’s why Hatch Homes Group works with clients to create a personalized pricing strategy based on their unique property and market conditions.
Bottom Line: Strategy is Key
Preparing your home for sale is a complex process that requires careful planning and strategic execution. From conducting a pre-inspection and making cosmetic updates to staging and crafting a compelling marketing plan, each step plays a critical role in maximizing your return.
If you’re thinking about selling your home, reach out to Hatch Homes Group for a strategy session. We’re here to guide you every step of the way and help you make the most of your investment.
Watch the FULL INTERVIEW with Shey Gladstone and Johnny Allen Here!