Page 21 - Downsizing
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13.UNTHINK
So, how much do you think make it look better than anything else
your house will sell for? on the market, but if it isn't priced
correctly it'll never sell. And over
Most people have a number in their time, you'll lose leverage (and money)
head. Some people just pluck it out of because buyers take note of how long
thin air. Others look online. Some a house has been sitting on the
take how much they owe, add the market.
amount of money they've put into
the house in upgrades, then add how You're better off pricing your house
much commissions will be, and then accurately from day one. This doesn't
add how much they want or need to mean you're "giving your house
be able to buy their next house. away" or are "losing money." Yet
many people feel that way because
Unfortunately, none of those they had an inflated value in their
methods are accurate. The most head. But that value and that money
accurate way to know how much your never actually existed.
house is worth is to get a thorough
market analysis from a local real So, the best thing you can do is to
estate agent — one who knows his or unthink whatever value you have in
her stuff inside and out. your head. Do whatever it takes.
Meditate. Go away to a spa for a
Problem is, many homeowners do weekend and get massages. Live with
have a number in their head, and that Tibetan monks for a few days.
number is often unrealistic. They tend
to get defensive or angry when they Once you unthink the values in your
hear the truth, insisting on listing head, get a thorough "comparative
their house for more than it's worth. market analysis" (CMA) by a
Then they'll shop around for an agent thoughtful, knowledgeable real estate
who says what they want to hear (just agent whom you trust...and then
to get the listing). trust what he or she says. Base your
hopes and next moves on that
Listing your house for more than you number, not any other number you
should is one of the most deadly sins may have already thought.
of selling your house. You could prep
your house in every way possible and
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