Selling your home in anything other than an active market can seem challenging, but what do you do when yours is only one of many homes in your neighborhood with For Sale signs?  Surprisingly, there are actually some advantages to marketing your home in this situation.

More buyers are drawn to neighborhoods where they can preview more homes at once.  More buyers means more opportunities for your home to be seen and to attract an offer, so make your listing stand out against your competition.

Price your home aggressively after reviewing the comparable sales figures provided by your Kingsley Real Estate agent.  Don’t give your neighbors the advantage of looking like a bargain compared to your listing - take it yourself and show buyers what a great value you’re offering.  If you’re competing against foreclosure listings, having your home in “move in” condition helps, because foreclosures often need lots of repairs.

With this much activity in the neighborhood, make sure that your home is available for showing on literally a moment’s notice.  Buyers who come to look at other listings may spot yours and want to see it right away to make comparisons.  Be prepared for “impulse” prospects with good housekeeping and an escape plan for unexpected showings.

Finally, don’t worry if your neighbor sells first - that just makes for less competition in your market!

For information on selling your home, call us, stop by the office or if you prefer, email me at donkingsley@kingsleyrealestate.com.  I will be happy to share my knowledge with you at no cost or obligation.  If you need help starting the process, call a REALTOR® from Don Kingsley Real Estate!

It’s the best news in real estate since last year’s First Time Home Buyers Tax Credit: an estimated $22 billion will pump into our economy as a result of the government not only extending the tax credit, but including current homeowners, too.

The existing $8,000 maximum credit stays in place for first-time buyers.  A “first-time” buyer is one who has not owned a home during the three years prior to the purchase.  However, repeat buyers who have lived in their home for five of the past eight years may also qualify for up to a $6,500 tax credit on their purchase.

Unlike before, as long as the property is under contract by April 30, 2010, buyers will have an additional 60 days to close by July 1, 2010.  The credit applies to single-family homes, condominiums, townhomes and co-ops.

The qualifying income limits have been increased as well, up to $125,000 for individuals and $225,000 for couples filing jointly.  If an individual makes up to $145,000 or a couple up to $245,000, the credit can still be claimed, but at a reduced percentage.  Any incomes over those amounts won’t qualify.

If your tax credit totals more than your tax bill, you’ll receive a refund!  Approximately 2 million people are expected to take advantage of this buying opportunity, so jump to action before the April 30 deadline!

If you are ready to make the move, whether buying or selling, call or stop by our office and I will be happy to share my knowledge with you at no cost or obligation.  If you prefer, you can email me at donkingsley@kingsleyrealestate.com.

If you’re under pressure to sell your home quickly in a challenging market, you may have to swallow a large dose of reality and take some radical steps to increase your home’s visibility.  While making concessions can seem difficult, please consider the following proven suggestions to produce a quick sale.

Remember that there are myriad possibilities for exposure in today’s internet-driven society.  In addition to your agent’s traditional print and online marketing tools, use social networking sites like facebook and Twitter to promote your listing to younger first-time buyers.

When setting your price, place it ten to fifteen percent below your competition.  All other things being equal, your home will readily appear as the best value.

Also consider the price “range” your home will fall into, and make sure you’re on the lower end of that range.  For example, a $199,000 home falls into the upper end of the $150,000 to $200,000 range, but that same home priced at $201,000 is in the lower end of the $200,000 to $250,000 range.  Buyers tend to look in ranges of prices, so again, make yours look like the best value.

Finally, talk with your agent about incentives you can offer, like paying buyer closing costs, not being reimbursed for taxes or a decorating allowance.  If you have a strong need to sell quickly, any or all of these suggestions should produce results.

For FREE information on selling your home, call us, stop by or if you prefer, email me at donkingsley@kingsleyrealestate.com.  I will be happy to provide you with the articles below.  If you need help starting the process, call a REALTOR® from Don Kingsley Real Estate!

- 5 Things to do Before Putting Your Home on the Market
- Forms You’ll Need to Sell Your Home
- Simple Tips for Better Home Showings