How to Add Value & Sell Your Home, Even During an Economic Slowdown

No matter what’s happening with the economy, if you’re planning to sell your home, there are strategic things you can do to maximize your home’s value and attract motivated buyers.

Consider these tips:

1. Price your home strategically.

Any experienced realtor would agree that pricing your home correctly from the start is crucial. Pricing your home too high can turn buyers away, while underpricing may leave money on the table. Have your realtor conduct a comparative market analysis (CMA), which will provide you with a competitive, yet realistic price that reflects current market conditions.

Should the economy be in a slowdown, highlight your home’s value without inflating the price. Buyers will likely show more interest in a property that feels like a “great deal” relative to similar homes.

2. Maximize your home’s curb appeal.

Invest in affordable improvements to boost curb appeal, which will make a great first impression on buyers. Small but impactful improvements can include:

  • Fresh paint on the front door and/or exterior of the house 
  • Neatly trimmed landscaping and a lush backyard with established trees, shrubs and plants 
  • Update lighting fixtures
  • Freshen up walkways and driveways
  • Hang wall art
  • Install window boxes
  • Update your mailbox

These enhancements create a welcoming impression and signal to buyers that your home is well cared for.

3. Focus on staging.

When potential buyers can imagine themselves living in your home, it can lead to faster offers. This means focusing on first impressions by arranging furniture, decor, and lighting strategically, emphasizing your home’s strengths and minimizing its weaknesses. 

A well-staged home feels inviting, spacious, and move-in ready, helping to build an emotional connection with a potential buyer.

Consider hiring a professional stager or follow DIY staging tips such as:

  • Decluttering rooms for a more spacious, airy feel
  • Decorate with neutral colors, appealing to a broad range of buyers
  • Arrange furniture to showcase a room’s functionality
  • Use small touches like fresh flowers or cozy throws to create a warm atmosphere
  • ​​Depersonalize your space, removing family photos,kids’ artwork, and personal collections

4. Focus on energy efficiency in your home. 

Today’s savvy homebuyers prioritize energy efficiency and potential savings on utility costs. That said, sellers can add value to their homes with features such as energy-efficient windows and doors, LED lighting, Smart thermostats, and insulation upgrades  inside the home, reducing energy consumption for heating and cooling.

Other energy-efficient tips include:

  • Sealing gaps and cracks around windows, doors, and other entry points 
  • Upgrade to ENERGY STAR-certified appliances 
  • Prioritize efficient heating systems 

Share information on your home’s energy savings, which can attract eco-conscious buyers and those looking to cut long-term costs.

5. Offer flexible showings.

Increase the number of potential buyers who view your property by accommodating evening, weekend, and even virtual showings to ensure no opportunity is missed. 

The easier you make it for people to see your home, the better your chances of selling quickly.

6. Provide buyer incentives. 

Hesitant buyers may be incentivized to make an offer if given extras to sweeten the deal. Consider opportunities such as:

  • Closing cost assistance or credits
  • Home warranty coverage
  • Credit toward upgrades or repairs
  • Flexible move-in dates
  • Including property already in the home such as appliances, furniture, or window coverings

These incentives can make your property stand out, thus creating a win-win scenario for both parties.

7. Work with an Experienced Realtor

In a housing market as competitive as Fairfield County, CT, it’s crucial to have an experienced realtor in your corner. 

For over 20 years,  Karla Murtaugh and her team of highly-skilled real estate professionals have provided expert representation and exceptional results. Karla Murtaugh Homes Team specializes in residential property, luxury homes, equestrian properties, new construction, relocation, waterfront properties, and land and can help you:

  • Set a realistic yet competitive price
  • Market your property effectively
  • Navigate negotiations with potential buyers
  • Identify which upgrades or incentives will offer the best return on investment

Trust the Real Estate Experts 

Selling your home requires strategy, patience, and a proactive approach. An experienced realtor like Karla Murtaugh can make all the difference and take the overwhelm out of the selling process.

Her team can help you successfully sell your home without sacrificing its value, even in uncertain economic times.

Contact Karla here and put your home in her hands!