From Dian Hymer and Inman News, “There are plenty of home buyers intent on buying while they can still lock in a relatively low mortgage rate. So, the 2006 housing market should present good opportunities for sellers who understand how to maximize profit in this new, more balanced, selling environment.”

“The first step is to start thinking like a buyer, not a seller. Although buyers are anxious to buy before rates rise further, they know that the appreciation rate is subsiding.”

“Listings are most salable when they’re new on the market. To maximize your chances, your home not only needs to be priced right and properly prepared for sale, you also need a comprehensive marketing plan. You want to make sure that information about your listing reaches as many potential buyers as possible. So, pick your listing agent carefully. A prospective listing agent should provide you with a marketing plan. Ask to see samples of the marketing materials that will be used to promote your home. Make sure that your home will receive Internet exposure. Over 70 percent of today’s home buyers start their home searches on the Internet.”

“In most cases, it’s not wise to work with an agent who is from outside of the local market area. Few agents can give good service if they are spreading themselves too thin. A bad marketing effort can result in a lower sale price. Recently, an agent from out of area listed a property in Oakland, Calif. It was never adequately exposed to the local Oakland market. It finally sold after several price reductions. The buyers got a good deal, not the sellers.”

“Don’t list for less than a price you can accept if you don’t receive multiple offers. But, keep in mind that overpriced listings won’t sell.”

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