In today’s digital age, more people than ever before are finding incredible success selling their homes online. The convenience and reach of the online marketplace have made it a go-to option for many homeowners. However, with the market being so hot right now, it’s inevitable that you’ll face some stiff competition. To help you navigate this competitive landscape and ensure your property stands out, we’ve put together our favorite tips and strategies. By following these expert recommendations, you can boost your online presence, attract potential buyers, and sell your home quickly and efficiently. Whether you’re a seasoned seller or a first-time homeowner, these tips are designed to help you achieve a successful sale in the fast-paced world of online real estate.
Go Where The Buyers Are:
There are numerous online listing portals available for selling your home, providing you with a wide array of choices. Start by looking up some listings in your area to see which sites show up first in the search results. Often, the top sites you’ll encounter are Zillow and Trulia. Regardless of your opinion about them, these platforms have a solid grip on generating substantial real estate traffic. When you list a property on the MLS, it’s likely to be picked up by these major sites. Even if you’re not directly advertising with them, it’s crucial to ensure your properties are showcased effectively on these platforms.
To streamline your listing process, consider using services that syndicate your listing to multiple top sites. This way, you only need to enter your information once. However, it’s essential to check your listing on all the sites where it was syndicated. While automation is convenient, it can sometimes lead to data errors or jumbled information. By verifying your listings, you can ensure that potential buyers see accurate and appealing details about your property, enhancing your chances of a successful sale.
Consider Premium Listings:
When you perform a property search on any major real estate website, you’ll likely notice certain properties consistently appearing at the top of the results. These properties have paid for that premium position. Similarly, the real estate agents whose names you see repeatedly at the top of searches have invested in promoting their visibility. If you want to give your property instant traction and increase its visibility, it can be worthwhile to consider paying for a top spot on these platforms. The additional cost can significantly boost your property’s exposure, making it stand out to potential buyers and increasing the likelihood of a quick and successful sale. By strategically investing in premium placements, you can leverage the high traffic of these major websites to your advantage and ensure your listing gets the attention it deserves.
Create a Property Specific Website:
A unique and innovative way to sell your home using the internet is to create a property-specific website. Establishing a basic website and domain is relatively inexpensive, making it a cost-effective option to get started. By incorporating a bit of SEO, engaging content, and high-quality imagery, you can quickly build a site that rivals the big advertisers when it comes to showcasing your house. This dedicated website can highlight the unique features of your property, provide virtual tours, and offer detailed information that potential buyers are looking for. By optimizing the site for search engines, you can attract more visitors and create a professional, polished presentation that sets your home apart from the competition. This personalized approach not only enhances the online visibility of your property but also gives you complete control over how it is marketed and presented to prospective buyers.
Use Amazing Photos:
They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and when it comes to selling your home, this couldn’t be more true. Ensure that the words used to describe your house are “stunning, spacious, and immaculate,” rather than “dated, cramped, and dingy.” High-quality photos are crucial in shaping buyers’ first impressions and determining whether they want to learn more about your property. It’s often difficult for buyers to picture themselves living in your home if they see your personal belongings scattered around. Start packing early by putting away knick-knacks and decorative items. Clear out all the clutter to create a clean, inviting space, and then hire a professional photographer to take high-quality photos of your home. Look through a few listings and notice the difference between those who invested in professional photography and those who simply used cell phone photos taken from the street. Professional images not only make your home look its best but also significantly increase the chances of attracting serious buyers.
Use an Accurate Description of the Property:
Be as detailed and accurate about your property as possible when listing it online. Full disclosure of any defects is important to maintain trust and avoid future complications. However, don’t forget to highlight the positive details that could be key selling points for certain buyers. For instance, if you have recently redone the roof, make sure to mention it. If your home features a large, bright kitchen, this should definitely be highlighted. These specific details can set your property apart from others and attract buyers who are looking for those exact features. Being thorough in your description not only provides potential buyers with a clear picture of what to expect but also demonstrates your transparency and honesty, which can build buyer confidence and lead to a quicker sale.
Watch Your Words:
When people are house hunting, listings can start to sound alike and blend together. A lack of descriptive adjectives can make every property seem merely “beautiful” or “cozy.” To avoid blending in with the crowd, use vivid and colorful language to make your listing stand out. Instead of relying on generic words, paint a picture with your description. Highlight the unique features and character of your home with specific, engaging adjectives. For example, describe your living room as “sun-drenched” rather than just “bright,” or your garden as a “tranquil oasis” instead of simply “nice.” This approach will capture the attention of potential buyers and make your property memorable amidst a sea of similar-sounding listings.
Use Data To:
Acquiring, understanding and using data will almost guarantee you a quick sale. Using data, you will be able to:
- Run comps of recently sold properties in the area.
- Locate and contact the best agents in town. Online reviews will ensure you find the agent that is best for you!
- Study market trends for real estate in your area. Ask questions such as: when is the best time of year to sell my Chicago house? What are the current buyer demographics?