11/19/2025
If my mom (or kids) were selling their house in 2025, here’s the honest advice I would give them.
Buyers are expecting perfection. When a buyer walks into a home, they want to see minimal maintenance. What this really means is they want to hear the words "fresh paint," they want to see the holes in the wall filled in and that flooring that has scratches or the carpet that smells like p*e to be replaced. They don’t want to move in and have a project on their hands - they want to enjoy it the moment they sign the papers.
And honestly? I don't blame them. When interest rates are a bit higher than they were a few years ago (AKA: their monthly payment is higher) people want to feel like they are getting a good value when they move in.
I'm seeing not only nationwide, but especially here in Southern Utah, that buyers are negotiating for more things to be completed, too. Did you know that inspectors recommend new paint every 5-7 years for best care? And if your roof hasn't been replaced in 15 years, the new buyer's insurance may not fully cover it. That's a BIG deal!
I'm sure you've heard the phrase, "first impressions are everything". And it's true! If you follow the instructions I tell you for how to make your home look photo ready, it'll show well! I personally spend over $1,000 on professional photography and videography to make sure we attract the right buyers online. If the photos and video aren't attracting views, then we are already losing.
Here's another big one.... If they schedule an appointment to view your home and it doesn’t work with your schedule, you're given one option: MAKE IT WORK! If you miss them on their first appointment, you might not get a 2nd chance. There is plenty of inventory on the market for them to look elsewhere. Some buyers are in town for the day, are looking at multiple in one day and are only deciding from the few they look at. It might not be convenient for you, but make it convenient for them! It might be the difference maker in a contract or not.
And lastly, don’t be greedy. I highly recommend listing your home below market value. If homes in your area are selling for $425,000 and you think yours is way better with all of the upgrades you have, price it at $425,000. You might think I'm crazy for saying that, but here's why: homes are sitting longer (90ish days is the average). You don't want your home to sit on the market with no appointments. Set yourself up for success and list below market value so that you can position yourself for multiple offers. I'm seeing many homes go under contract in the first week if it's priced to sell.
I'm a realtor here in Southern Utah. Sometimes people don't hire me because I'll tell them the honest truth. What I've written above is the honest truth - it's the advice I'd tell MY parents.
So, if you're looking to buy or sell here in the St. George area and you want someone to give you their honest opinion (not just a feel good response that will line their pocket books), give me a call. My personal cell is (702) 413-3140.
- Jenn
(702) 413-3140
Keller Williams Realty