Sprucing up house before sale

[LivingAlmostLarge]

Don't trust the person who only wanted $500 in updates and $30k more. For all you know they are telling you that they could sell the house for more to get your business. I always got 3 estimates and picked one that was reasonable not the highest. The highest wants business because once you sign a contract you are locked in for 3 months or however long.

[snafu]

I'm glad DH's choice eliminated the need to move. It's a horrible, stressful job if you're having to pack up every single item in your home. On the other end you will likely go through the process as a buyer and that too is hard work.

Should circumstances change, I suggest having a criteria for hiring an agent. You want someone who has at least five years experience, very familiar with your specific district. You need an agent who can call colleagues from other agencies who have buyers looking for a house in your price range and style.

An agent should be able to give you a written plan with thumbnail photo showing how many homes sold in your general area, # bedrms, # bthrm, square footage, price and how many days on the market. Likewise list any 3 + months on the market and withdrawn, not sold. Finally what is currently listed.

The agents you interview should be able to give you an outline of how they worked out the listing price. You want to be realistic in what will actually sell, but not leave money on the table by pricing too low. Zwillow isn't terribly accurate but it's a starting point for value. Nearly all listings are on-line, you can look at video details.