@Kate J.This question comes up a lot. This is the basics to any sale ever. If its compelling its selling. If your product is what the consumer wants then you can probably sell on your own and save a little not paying that listing agent.
HOWEVER. If you know in your heart because you've done your research before buying that it may be a little difficult to sell then by all means hire someone who knows the market better.
These are my basics to every home I sell.
Know who your buyer is going to be- Did you design the home with the buyers needs and wants in mind? Neighborhood demographics can be found on websites like city-data.com
First Impression- Pictures matter you have 3 seconds to grab the consumers attention while they scroll through photo's online. Video and 3D tours are also incredibly helpful but not always needed.
Attention- Most consumers start their search before ever contacting a realtor with websites like zillow. I personally market my properties on over 350 home search websites.
Reach- The more people who see your property the more showings that get scheduled.
Compelling/Targeted Marketing = Showings. 15-20 showings should equal 1 or more offer depending on market. If you're seeing that many showings you know your marketing is working. If you're not seeing offers the issue is more than likely price. But use the showing feedback to see what the consumer thinks of your product. Time is your enemy obviously for holding costs, but also higher market times we see whats called a showing cliff ( chicago market 2017 6 weeks ish). Meaning that if you have not gone under contract in 6 weeks the number of weekly showings will dramatically decrease. Remember what we said showings lead to offers. Higher market times also generate lower offer prices.
Now that's just the first step. Are you prepared to negotiate with the realtors that do this every day and have the goal of getting their clients the best price possible.
This all of course only applies if you plan to sell in the traditional manor. Many of us have had success just throwing up craigslist ads.
Feel free to message me with any questions.
