Is Merced a Buyer’s Market or a Seller’s Market Currently?

If you’ve been wondering whether now is the right time to sell your Merced home, you’re not alone. Between news headlines about mortgage rates and social media chatter about price drops, it’s easy to feel unsure.

The truth? Merced County average sales price is holding steady—leaning slightly toward a seller’s market, thanks to balanced inventory, steady prices, and motivated buyers still looking to call Merced, Atwater, or McSwain home.

Let’s break down what that really means for you as a seller in today’s market.

So… Buyer’s Market or Seller’s Market in Merced Today?

According to Redfin (October 2025), Merced’s median sale price sits around $420,000, up about 4.5% year-over-year. Homes take about 40-60 days to sell, which points to a balanced-to-slightly-seller market—where demand and supply are fairly even, but homes that SHOW LIKE A MODEL HOME still command strong offers.

That’s good news for sellers: buyers are active, not passive, and serious buyers are making moves despite higher interest rates.

What Do the Latest Prices and Speed Tell Us?

Here’s a quick snapshot of the Merced County market right now:

• Merced City Median Sale Price: ~$420,000 (up 4.5% YoY–Year over Year)
• Average Days on Market: ~60 days  (up 200% YoY)
• County Median Sale Price: ~$435,000 (steady YoY)
• Realtor.com Listing Median: ~$418,000 (flat YoY)
• Zillow ZHVI (Typical Value): ~$393,458 (slightly down YoY)

In short: prices are stable, while homes that need work are seeing many price reductions, most in great condition— are still selling at a healthy pace.

If homes were taking 100+ days to sell or dropping in value by 10% or more, we’d be in a buyer’s market. But that’s not what we’re seeing in Merced.

Why Do Zillow, Redfin, and Realtor.com Show Different Numbers?

If you’ve checked multiple sites lately, you may have noticed their stats don’t match—and that’s perfectly normal.

Here’s why:

• Zillow (ZHVI) calculates value based on public records and machine learning—not active MLS data.
• Redfin uses active and sold listings directly from MLS feeds, so it reflects current sale speeds and pricing better.
• Realtor.com reports listing prices, which show what sellers ask, not necessarily what buyers pay.

That’s why it’s crucial to base your decision on a CMA (Comparative Market Analysis) from a real agent who understands the nuances of each area—not just algorithmic estimates

Are Some Merced Neighborhoods More Competitive Than Others?

Absolutely. Micro-markets tell the real story:

 North & Northeast Merced — Fastest-moving area, thanks to proximity to UC Merced, Bellevue Ranch, and new construction. Homes often go pending in less than 45 days.

Downtown Merced — Still active, though older homes, especially those needing work, and mixed zoning can extend DOM to 60–75 days.

 South Merced / Winton — Value-driven market attracting first-time buyers, usually 45–60 days DOM.

Overall, Merced’s balance comes from consistent demand across price ranges—especially among families relocating from Fresno, Modesto, and the Bay Area for affordability and space.

How Do Atwater and McSwain Differ from Central Merced?

Atwater: Slightly faster-moving than Merced, with average DOM between 29 and 35 days. Buyers love Atwater for its family-friendly neighborhoods and proximity to Hwy 99—making it perfect for commuters.

McSwain: A luxury niche that plays by different rules. Homes here typically sell in 65–75 days, reflecting their higher price points and custom nature. But when marketed correctly—with strong visuals and lifestyle storytelling—they command exceptional value and attract Bay Area and Southern California buyers.

In short:

• Atwater = Momentum
• Merced = Balance
• McSwain = Patience + Payoff

What Would Push Merced Toward a Buyer’s Market?

There are three major indicators to watch:

1. Inventory (Active Listings) – A sudden rise in unsold homes over 4–6 months of supply could shift the market toward buyers.
2. Interest Rates – If rates rise significantly above 7% again , buyer affordability dips, creating less competition.
3. Local Employment Trends – Major layoffs or industry slowdowns could reduce relocation demand.

Right now, none of these are red flags. Inventory remains moderate, and rates have stabilized in mid-2025.

Seller Playbook: How to Keep Leverage in a Balanced Market

Even in a balanced market, the best-prepared listings win. Here’s how to stay on top:

Price smart, not high. Homes priced right from day one sell faster and for closer to list price.
Stage with intention. Professional staging can boost perceived value by 6–10%.
Launch mid-week. Wednesday or Thursday listings get maximum weekend exposure.
Offer light incentives. Consider covering closing costs or offering a 2-1 rate buydown instead of a price cut.
Use AI-driven exposure. Modern marketing finds the right buyer faster—reducing wasted time.

How My AI-Certified Marketing Keeps You Ahead

As an AI Certified REALTOR®, I don’t rely on guesswork. My listing system uses advanced tools that identify:

• Who’s most likely to engage with your home
• When they’re online and ready to act
• What creative and ad formats drive the highest click-through and showing rates

This means your listing reaches more qualified buyers faster, giving you stronger leverage and less time on market—no matter what the headlines say.

The Bottom Line

Merced’s housing market isn’t crashing or cooling dramatically—it’s stabilizing. Right now, it’s a balanced market that still gives sellers an edge when their home is prepped and priced correctly.

The key? Presentation, precision, and timing.

With the right plan, you can sell confidently in today’s Merced market—whether you’re in Atwater, McSwain, or anywhere in between.

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Thinking about selling? Now’s the time to position your home strategically so you don’t leave money on the table. I’ll walk you through exactly how to price, prep, and market for the best results—without the stress.  Call me at 209-345-3836 or DM me to talk strategy. I’m the SELLER’S Agent. Who You Choose Matters.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does It Take to Sell a Home in Merced Today?

If you’ve been thinking about selling your home in Merced, Atwater, or McSwain, one of your first questions is probably, “How long will it take to sell?”

The answer depends on your price point, preparation, and strategy—but overall, homes in Merced County are selling faster than you might think. Let’s break down what’s really happening in the market right now, plus what you can do to speed things up.

What Is the Current Days-on-Market in Merced?

According to Redfin (October 2025), the median days on market in Merced is about 60 days—meaning most homes take around two months from listing to closing. That’s consistent with a balanced market, where neither buyers nor sellers hold all the leverage.

Homes in North Merced and turnkey listings under $450,000 often move faster, sometimes selling within 30 days. On the other hand, properties needing updates or with unique layouts can linger closer to 75 days.

Realtor.com’s latest data lines up closely, reporting an average 61 days on market across the Merced metro area.

How Fast Are Homes Selling Across Merced County?

Zooming out, Merced County overall averages around 48 days on market, per Redfin. Smaller towns like Winton and Ballico trend slightly longer due to smaller buyer pools, while well-connected areas near highways or UC Merced tend to sell faster.

That’s important: timing isn’t just about the calendar—it’s about location, list price, how your property is positioned in the market, and PRESENTATION!

Do Atwater and McSwain Move Faster or Slower Than Merced?

Atwater: Typically sells a bit faster. As of late 2025, Atwater homes average 29–35 days on market—driven by strong move-up demand and newer suburban developments.

McSwain: Luxury properties, custom builds, and acreage homes often take longer—around 65–75 days on average—because the buyer pool is more selective. However, when presented well, McSwain homes tend to hold value and attract motivated relocation buyers.

So, while Atwater moves on speed, McSwain moves on presentation.

Why Do Different Sites Show Different Timelines?

Here’s a quick decode:

• Redfin’s DOM = “Days to Sell” → measures from listing to closing.
• Zillow’s metric often refers to “Days to Pending” → how quickly a home goes under contract (usually faster by 15–25 days).
• Realtor.com’s DOM = “Active Days on Market” → how long the home is visible before pending status.

So when one site says 35 days and another says 60, they’re both right—they’re just measuring different points in the sale process.

What matters most to sellers is the “Days to Offer”, which in Merced typically averages 20–40 days for well-priced, staged homes.

What Actually Shortens Time-to-Offer in Merced, Atwater & McSwain?

Here’s what I see every week in the field as a local listing agent:

Accurate pricing from day one – Homes priced within 2% of market value get 3× more online views.
Professional staging & photography – Creates emotional connection; buyers decide within 10 seconds of viewing photos.
Clean, move-in ready condition – Even simple updates (paint, landscaping, lighting) can cut DOM by 1–2 weeks.
Strategic listing day – Wednesday or Thursday launches lead to faster weekend showings.
AI-targeted marketing – Pinpointing the right buyers reduces wasted time on mismatched showings.

When Should You List to Sell Faster?

Timing still matters. National research from Realtor.com shows the best week to sell in 2025 was April 13–19. During that week, homes tend to sell 18% faster and for 2–3% higher prices than average.

But even outside spring, Merced sellers can win with strategy:

• Spring (March–May): Highest buyer activity.
• Fall (September–November): Fewer listings = less competition.
• Winter: Motivated buyers, relocation moves, and holiday job transfers.

Also, Wednesday listings typically yield the highest sale prices, while Thursday listings sell the fastest (Redfin data).

What’s the Realistic Timeline to Expect in 2025?

Property Type	Average DOM	Notes
Starter Homes (<$400K)	30–45 days	Strong demand; faster offers
Mid-Tier Homes ($400K–$650K)	45–60 days	Typical Merced County pace
Luxury Homes ($800K+)	65–80 days	Selective buyers, longer prep
Fixer-Uppers	75+ days	Price and condition sensitive

With smart prep and strategy, even high-end homes can outperform these averages.

How My AI-Certified Strategy Reduces Your DOM

As an AI Certified REALTOR®, I go beyond traditional marketing. My system analyzes buyer search behavior, showing patterns, and engagement signals to pinpoint exactly when and where your listing will perform best.

That means your home launches when the most active buyers are looking—and reaches them through targeted online and social ads.

In fact, AI-driven targeting has helped my listings in Atwater and North Merced cut average days on market by up to 25%, even in slower months.

The Bottom Line: Selling Smart = Selling Fast

In 2025, the average home in Merced takes about 60 days to sell—but with the right strategy, presentation, and marketing, you can beat that average easily.

Homes that launch mid-week, show beautifully, and use digital precision marketing consistently sell faster and closer to asking price.

Don’t just list—launch strategically.

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Thinking about selling? Now’s the time to position your home strategically so you don’t leave money on the table. I’ll walk you through exactly how to price, prep, and market for the best results—without the stress.  Call me at 209-345-3836 or DM me to talk strategy. I’m the SELLER’S Agent. Who You Choose Matters.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re considering selling your home, timing can make a huge difference in your success. In the Merced, Atwater, and McSwain markets, the right timing can mean more showings, faster offers, and a higher sale price. As a local expert and AI Certified Agent, I’ll break down when it’s best to sell in our area—and how to make your home shine when you do.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Sell a House in Merced?

Historically, the best time to sell in Merced is spring—specifically from mid-April through June. This window captures the highest number of active buyers and the strongest pricing. According to Realtor.com’s 2025 analysis, the week of April 13–19 is projected to be one of the top-performing listing weeks nationwide, with listings selling faster and for more money than at any other time of the year.

In Merced, warmer weather, blooming neighborhoods, and families planning summer moves all converge to create the perfect storm of buyer demand. Homes listed in this period often attract 10–20% more views online and generate stronger in-person activity.

Does Atwater or McSwain Follow the Same Seasonal Pattern as Merced?

Atwater tends to mirror Merced’s cycle closely, though it sometimes peaks a few weeks earlier due to slightly faster-moving inventory. McSwain, on the other hand, is home to larger properties and custom homes that attract a more deliberate luxury buyer. For this reason, McSwain sellers may see continued strength into early summer, when relocation buyers and executives start making moves for the next school year.

How Do Mortgage Rates and Inventory Affect the “Right” Time to List?

Even the best season can underperform if rates spike or inventory surges unexpectedly. Over the last few years, interest rates have influenced buyer urgency more than any other factor. When rates stabilize, as they’re projected to in mid-2025, buyer confidence returns—and with it, faster offers.

At the same time, inventory across Merced County has inched up, giving buyers more choice. That’s why strategic pricing and high-end presentation matter more than ever. Sellers who list when supply is balanced and rates are calm tend to see multiple offers, even in a moderated market.

Is Spring Really King, or Can Fall Work for Sellers in Merced County?

Spring is still the most active season, but fall shouldn’t be ignored. After Labor Day, we often see a second mini-surge in activity. Many buyers who missed out in spring return to the market hoping to close before the holidays. Fall sellers in Merced, Turlock, and Atwater can benefit from less competition—fewer listings mean more eyes on your home.

If you list in fall, ensure your marketing, staging, and photos create warmth and appeal. Homes with cozy lighting, seasonal décor, and high-quality imagery stand out in online searches.

What Is the Single Best Week to Sell in 2025?

Data from Realtor.com shows the week of April 13–19, 2025, as the sweet spot. During this period, homes historically receive more than 20% higher online visibility and sell faster than in any other week. For Merced-area homeowners, listing just before this window can help you ride the wave of increased buyer activity.

Which Day of the Week Should You Go Live for Maximum Impact?

Timing your launch day is just as important as picking your season. Research from Redfin indicates that Wednesday is the best day to list if you want the highest sale price, while Thursday listings tend to sell fastest. The logic is simple: buyers plan weekend tours mid-week, and your fresh listing gets maximum exposure before Saturday open houses.

Do Luxury Homes in McSwain and Northeast Merced Behave Differently?

Absolutely. Luxury homes often attract more selective buyers who aren’t bound by school-year schedules. Many relocate from the Bay Area or Southern California, seeking more space and a relaxed lifestyle. Because of this, high-end listings can perform well throughout the year if marketed correctly.

My approach for luxury sellers combines AI-targeted marketing, professional staging, and timing strategies to ensure your listing reaches the right audience at the right time—regardless of season.

How to Prep, Price, and Launch Like a Pro in Merced, Atwater, and McSwain

Whether you plan to list in spring or fall, preparation is key:

1. Start early. Begin planning 60–90 days before your target list date.
2. Declutter and refresh. Fresh paint, updated lighting, and clean landscaping go a long way.
3. Stage strategically. Professional staging makes your home stand out, especially in online searches.
4. Use professional photography. Buyers decide within seconds—photos matter more than ever.
5. Lean into AI-powered marketing. My tools pinpoint buyers most likely to love your home, ensuring more showings and stronger offers.

Why Work With an AI Certified Agent?

I’m Monica Franks—your local real estate expert, REALTOR®, and AI Certified Agent. My AI training allows me to market your property with unmatched precision. Using advanced tools, I can identify the right buyers, craft engaging digital campaigns, and time your listing for maximum visibility.

For instance, my last AI-driven campaign in Atwater generated over 50 showings in its first week. This level of exposure helps sellers achieve top dollar faster and with less stress.

Conclusion

Timing truly matters when selling a home in Merced County. Spring listings—especially mid-April—typically perform best, but sellers who plan strategically can succeed in any season. With the right preparation, professional presentation, and intelligent marketing, your home can attract the attention it deserves.

Thinking about selling? Now’s the time to position your home strategically so you don’t leave money on the table. I’ll walk you through exactly how to price, prep, and market for the best results—without the stress.  Call me at 209-345-3836 or DM me to talk strategy. I’m the SELLER’S Agent. Who You Choose Matters.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re thinking about selling your home in Merced County, you’ve probably wondered how today’s interest rates will impact your bottom line. Are higher rates scaring away buyers—or is the market adapting? The truth is, even in an environment of fluctuating mortgage rates, smart sellers can still come out ahead with the right strategy.

As your local REALTOR® and AI Certified Agent, I’ll break down what’s happening in Merced, Atwater, and McSwain—and what you can do right now to sell confidently in today’s market.

What Do Today’s Mortgage Rates Mean for Merced-Area Sellers?

Interest rates directly influence what buyers can afford. When rates go up, monthly payments rise, and buyers often adjust their price range. When they drop, purchasing power increases—and demand typically spikes.

According to the National Association of REALTORS®, a one-point drop in mortgage rates can increase buyer activity by as much as 8%. This means if rates dip from 7% to 6%, homes in Merced, Atwater, and McSwain may suddenly see more showings and offers. The key is being ready to move when those windows open.

How the “Lock-In Effect” Supports Home Values

One reason prices haven’t dropped sharply is the “lock-in effect.” Many homeowners secured ultra-low mortgage rates in 2020–2021 and are hesitant to sell and buy again at today’s higher rates. This has kept inventory tight—and limited inventory supports prices.

In Merced County, the number of homes for sale remains below pre-pandemic levels. Even with fewer buyers, limited supply means sellers who list well-positioned homes still have the advantage.

What Strategies Help Sellers Win When Rates Are Higher?

When rates are higher, buyers become more cautious—but that doesn’t mean they disappear. They simply become more selective. Here’s how to make your home stand out:

1. Price strategically – Avoid overpricing; instead, price slightly below market to attract attention and spark competition.
2. Perfect your presentation – A spotless, well-staged home signals value. Luxury buyers especially notice design details and upgrades.
3. Offer creative incentives – Consider a rate buydown or closing cost credit rather than a major price cut.
4. Leverage digital exposure – With my AI-powered marketing, your home gets in front of qualified buyers across multiple platforms, often before they even start actively searching.

Do Atwater and McSwain Behave Differently from Merced?

Yes, slightly. Atwater’s newer neighborhoods often attract move-up buyers, while McSwain’s luxury estates appeal to relocation clients seeking more space. These segments are less rate-sensitive because buyers tend to have stronger financial profiles or equity from previous sales.

Luxury listings in McSwain and Northeast Merced continue to perform well when staged beautifully and marketed to targeted audiences—something my AI Listing Advantage system does exceptionally well.

Should You Offer a Temporary Rate Buydown Instead of Cutting Price?

Yes—often, a 2-1 or 3-2-1 buydown can attract more buyers than a straight price reduction. With a buydown, you as the seller pay points to lower the buyer’s interest rate temporarily. For example, a 2-1 buydown reduces the rate by 2% in year one and 1% in year two, making the home more affordable early on.

This strategy lets you keep your sale price intact while helping buyers manage their initial payments—especially effective for first-time or move-up buyers in Merced County.

Can an Assumable FHA or VA Loan Attract More Buyers?

Absolutely. If your current mortgage is FHA or VA, and your buyer qualifies, they may be able to assume your existing low interest rate. In a 7% market, an assumable 3% loan is a major selling point. Marketing your home’s assumable rate upfront can differentiate it from competing listings.

I make sure this benefit is highlighted in all listing materials so the right buyers find—and fall in love with—your home.

What’s the Near-Term Rate Outlook for 2025?

Analysts expect mortgage rates to gradually stabilize around the mid-6% range by mid-2025. That’s good news for sellers: as rates settle, buyer confidence typically returns, and activity rises.

Even if rates stay slightly elevated, remember—buyers adapt quickly. The bigger driver of success will be how your home is presented and promoted.

How I Prep, Price, and Market Your Home for Success

Here’s how I help you stand out, regardless of rate conditions:

1. AI-driven marketing precision – My AI Listing Advantage system identifies and targets buyers most likely to engage with your listing.
2. Luxury presentation – Professional staging, high-end photography, and cinematic video tours capture emotion and attention.
3. Data-based timing – I analyze weekly trends to launch your listing when online buyer traffic peaks.
4. Local expertise – As a long-time Merced County specialist, I know exactly what moves homes in your neighborhood.

Conclusion

Even in a higher-rate environment, the Merced real estate market offers opportunity for sellers who plan strategically. Limited inventory, motivated buyers, and creative financing options mean your home can still sell quickly and profitably.

Thinking about selling? Now’s the time to position your home strategically so you don’t leave money on the table. I’ll walk you through exactly how to price, prep, and market for the best results—without the stress.  Call me at 209-345-3836 or DM me to talk strategy. I’m the SELLER’S Agent. Who You Choose Matters.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s Happening with Home Prices in Merced, Atwater & McSwain — And How Sellers Can Win Right Now

If you’re thinking about selling your home and wondering whether now is the right time, you’re not alone. Many homeowners across Merced, Atwater, and McSwain are asking the same question: are home prices rising or falling? Let’s break down the numbers and what they mean for you as a seller.

According to recent market reports, Merced County home prices are showing signs of plateauing after sharp growth during 2020–2022. In Merced, the median sales price is hovering around the mid-$400,000s, with Atwater and McSwain homes trending slightly higher in certain neighborhoods. While the pace of appreciation has slowed, demand for well-priced and well-prepped homes remains strong — especially in the luxury segment.

What are the current home price trends in Merced, Atwater & McSwain?

Home prices in Merced and Atwater are holding relatively steady, with only small month-to-month fluctuations. McSwain, known for its larger luxury properties, has seen stronger resilience — many of these homes are still commanding premium prices due to limited supply. For sellers, this means you may not see the rapid bidding wars of the past few years, but there is still healthy buyer demand.

How much have prices changed year‑over‑year in Merced & Atwater?

Compared to last year, average sale prices in Merced have softened by about 3–5%, while Atwater has remained nearly flat. Inventory has increased slightly, giving buyers more options, but sellers who price their homes strategically continue to achieve close-to-list or even above-list sales.

Is the luxury home market in Northeast Merced outperforming the rest?

Yes. Luxury homes in Northeast Merced and McSwain are outperforming the broader market. High-end buyers — often relocating from larger metro areas — value space, privacy, and custom features, which these communities provide. As a result, luxury homes have held their value better than mid-market properties.

How long are homes sitting on the market compared to last year?

Days on market have increased slightly across Merced County. Where homes might have sold in under two weeks during the peak market, the average is now closer to 30–40 days. Still, well-staged homes with strong marketing can sell faster.

What local factors are affecting home values right now?

Several forces are shaping our market:

• Interest rates: Higher mortgage rates have cooled some buyer activity, but rates are beginning to stabilize.
• Inventory levels: A modest increase in listings has given buyers more choices.
• Job growth & affordability: Merced’s affordability compared to Bay Area markets continues to attract new buyers, providing a solid demand base.

Should sellers in Winton, Turlock, Le Grand, Chowchilla, Snelling, Ballico, Cressey, Hilmar & Stevinson wait or list now?

It depends on your goals. Sellers in Turlock and Hilmar are still seeing strong buyer interest, while smaller communities like Le Grand or Ballico may experience longer market times due to fewer buyers. However, if you prepare and market your home strategically, you can still achieve an excellent sale price now rather than waiting for further uncertainty.

How can you price, prep, and market your home for success?

Here’s where experience and strategy make all the difference

1. Pricing with precision – Slightly under market value can spark multiple offers, while overpricing can cause your home to sit.
2. Luxury-focused prep – Simple updates like fresh paint, professional staging, and landscaping create a luxury feel buyers are drawn to.
3. AI-powered marketing – As an AI Certified Agent, I use advanced targeting tools to put your listing in front of the exact buyers most likely to love your home. That means fewer days on market and stronger offers.

Why Work With an AI Certified Agent?

I’m Monica Franks, your local real estate expert and an AI Certified Agent. My specialized training allows me to use cutting-edge tools that most agents don’t, like AI-driven marketing campaigns that get your home maximum exposure. Recently, one of my AI-powered listings generated more than 50 showings in its first week — proof that this approach works.

With my combination of local expertise and advanced marketing, I help you sell smarter, faster, and with less stress.

Conclusion

Selling in today’s market may feel uncertain, but with the right strategy, you can still achieve incredible results. Merced, Atwater, and McSwain homes continue to hold value, and luxury properties are performing especially well.

Thinking about selling? Now’s the time to position your home strategically so you don’t leave money on the table. I’ll walk you through exactly how to price, prep, and market for the best results—without the stress.  Call me at 209-345-3836 or DM me to talk strategy. I’m the SELLER’S Agent. Who You Choose Matters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are home prices expected to drop further in Merced County?
A: Prices are expected to remain relatively stable, with small shifts depending on neighborhood. Luxury homes in McSwain and Northeast Merced are holding especially strong.

Q: What upgrades give the best return for sellers in Atwater or McSwain?
A: Focus on curb appeal, kitchen refreshes, and professional staging. These upgrades typically deliver the strongest ROI in our market.

Q: How does pricing above list compare to under-listing today?
A: Overpricing often leads to longer days on market. Pricing slightly below market can generate more interest and even result in bidding wars.

Q: What mistakes do sellers often make in this market?
A: The most common mistake is overpricing. Others include skipping professional photos or neglecting simple prep work that can make a huge difference.

Ensure a Good First Impression

Homebuyers make up their minds about a property in the first few minutes. Make sure your home makes that vital first impression. New paint does wonders. Make sure the front yard is flawless with manicured lawns and attractive foliage. Add a hanging basket or some flower pots at the door. The front door is also critical, make sure the hardware is presentable.

Make them Feel Welcome

Don’t forget buying a home is in many ways an emotional decision, so it’s important to give buyers that warm and fuzzy feeling! Keep the temperature in the home at a comfortable level. Light some candles in the bathrooms and make sure it smells nice and clean. Have fresh flowers around the house.

But don’t make it too personal

Make them feel welcome, but don’t go too far. Too much personality, for example in the form of personal possessions and family photos makes it hard for buyers to visualize living in the space.

Clear out the Clutter

Make sure your property is clutter-free for all your viewings. This will make your home look and feel bigger, and the buyers will be able to imagine how they could make the space their own. Make sure that there is a clean, logical flow through the home by getting rid of all excess furniture. Less is more.

Improve Lighting

This is another way to make your home seem more spacious. Open all your curtains and flood the space with natural light. Make sure the darker rooms are also lit. Invest in some light fixtures and fittings, and place them strategically to illuminate even the gloomiest of areas.

Decorate to Sell That House

Slap on a fresh coat of paint in a neutral color to give it that blank canvas look but do not be too sterile. Have some contrast in the trim as well as the ceiling. Neutral colors make properties appear lighter and brighter, so take advantage of this inexpensive and easy option. You may also add color with decorative window coverings, rugs, and towels.

Clean Up Your Act

Your home should be spotless. Make sure the beds are made and the countertops are free of clutter. The dishes should be put away and nothing should be scattered on the floor. Don’t forget to tidy your garden too: Cut the shrubs back, sweep the patio, and wipe down the backyard furniture.

Those Minor Repairs You Put Off

It is easy to forget things such as broken doorknobs, cracked tiles, holes in walls and damaged but buyers will notice them first thing as they are walking around your home.

Maximize Your Space

The golden rule of selling is to make your space look and feel bigger and better than what your competitors have to offer. We’ve already mentioned that lighting your home, both naturally and artificially, can maximize your assets, but getting rid of bulky furniture can also be a great way of making the most of what you have. Large pieces of furniture make a space feel smaller, so put these items into storage and dress your home with more compact pieces.

Don’t Forget Your Floors

Make the investment of improving and investing in those floors. Worn carpets and damaged vinyl floors need to be replaced, and wooden floors especially should undergo some maintenance. This is not chap by any means, but the prospect of selling your home for the best possible price will likely outweigh the cost.

Remove Pets During Showings

You do not need to remind the potential buyer that the previous owner kept pets.

Try to remove your pets from your home when you are showing the home. Having a pet in the house or yard can create complications for your agent while trying to show the house, and puts your pet at risk of accidentally getting out during the showing. There are also liability issues to deal with as well. They may react differently to stranger and it may cause them stress. All pet-related damage should be repaired prior to showing the home. Make sure to also remove all odors and stains. New visitors will notice smells when they come to view the house. This is not something you want to happen. Have your carpet and floors professionally cleaned or replaced. Pick up any messes in the backyard and have any sod replaced and other damage repaired.