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Buyers know they have the upper hand in negotiating in this real estate market, and they are using that power to get the best deal on a new home in Illinois. But what can you do as a seller to get the best price for your home in shortest amount of time?

There are a couple of things to understand about the market that can help you equalize the playing field with qualified buyers when it comes to negotiating a sales contract:

• Price your home between the highest and lowest priced comparable home on the MLS. You never want to be the highest priced home on the market.

• Keep close tabs on what the competition is doing. New listings, price adjustments, and price reductions will affect your position on the MLS so it’s really important to know where you rank among the competition.

• Instead of lowering your asking price to create new interest in your property, considering offering the buyer a 2-night stay at the Wisconsin Dells or at a hotel in downtown Chicago. Even offering an Illinois home warranty can be enticing for many nervous first time homebuyers.

• If parts of your home need cosmetic updating consider offering an allowance for things such as carpet, paint or new appliances. Allowances are great ways to leverage the contract negotiation back in the sellers favor, at no up front cost to you for repairs.

• Don’t leave any unfinished projects for your buyer to have to finish. Buyers detract $$$ every time they lay eyes on one of your ambitious unfinished weekend projects. It doesn’t only cost you money on the final sale price it costs you precious market time.

I can help you get the most for your Illinois property, but I can’t do it alone.  I’ll need your help to get the SOLD sign in your yard!  By working closely with sellers and keeping a close on the competition you can get the best price for your home in the shortest amount of time… even in a down market.

If you are thinking about buying or selling a home in Will or DuPage County, let’s talk!  Call me at 630-673-6233.  I always answer my phone!