Tips For Being Successful in the Fall Real Estate Market

Summer is slowly coming to an end and the fall real estate market is inching closer and closer with every single day. Just as sure as we can expect the seasons to change, the housing market will likely follow suit. As the weather begins to cool down, it’s safe to assume the housing market will do the same. It’s worth noting, however, that the change isn’t necessarily a bad thing, at least not for those who are prepared for what’s to come.

Sellers:

Work on that lawn!

This year especially as we have been in drought-like conditions, you may need to get an earlier start on it than normal. However, it will help you separate from the bunch if your lawn is in tiptop shape. 

Declutter

Did you spend your quarantine years loading up on home decor like the rest of us? If so, get that garage sale rollin' and declutter your home. Buyers want to envision themselves living in a place of their own, not someone else's storage locker...

Don't overdo it

Many sellers take on big projects before even contacting their VIBE agent. We love your motivation and drive, but call us first so we can help make sure you're driving in the right direction! Many projects can be left for the soon-to-be owners of your home, and we work with many buyers that say they would have done things differently and would have rather tackled it themselves. Sometimes, a clean slate is the best - don't feel like you have to improve every inch of your home before hitting the market. Establish a selling plan with your VIBE agent that works best for you.

Buyers:

Have a plan

Work with your VIBE agent to lock-in a plan on how you're going to approach the home buying process. When are you available to look? What's your preferred form of communication? What offer strategies are you comfortable with or not comfortable with? Whether you're taking your time or you're ready to roll, having an offer strategy is key to winning in this market.

Don't hesitate

Many people think that because inventory levels are starting to come up a bit that they don't have to rush to get in a home. The fact is, once there's another offer on the table that's not yours, it completely changes the negotiation landscape, and could result in having to offer much higher than if you were the only offer. If you like it, make a move!

Look closely

It can be very tempting in a competitive market to want to move quickly and get your offer accepted, sometimes without even doing an inspection. Be sure to take your time, and look closely at what you're buying and make absolutely certain you are comfortable with its condition before you move forward. Use your tools, read the disclosures and inspection reports carefully, and ask your VIBE agent if you need to know the answer to something - that's what we're here for.