The Emotional Move
I have been selling real estate for over 21 years and regardless of what you might think, for 90% of sellers, it’s a very emotional move. I remember learning in Psychology 101 (college requirement) that “moving” is one of the top three stressors in life, just below divorce and death of a spouse. I also remember thinking “yeah right sure it is.” Then, voila, I become a real estate agent and my clients are happy, sad, angry, tearful, joyful and just about ready to choke anyone at anytime for absolutely no apparent reason. Well, there are a few reasons for these emotions, the most important being the vast amount of memories (sentimental attachments) that go along with the physical property they are leaving behind and secondly, the actual physical packing and moving required is extremely stressful, regardless of how well planned and smooth your move is, you have more stuff than you think and there are “memories” that can’t be packed.
In the end, sellers and buyers are thrilled with their new place and could not be happier, but getting there can be emotional.
I recently read an article that simply outlined mistakes people make when selling and I took these three points to share, as I think it is EXCELLENT advice if you are selling your home.
Overpricing your home- Don’t do it! You may think , well its a sellers market and inventory is LOW, but lets not forget that in 99% of the transactions, your property must still appraise at sales price or higher for buyer to obtain financing from the bank.
Letting emotions interfere with sale- We just chatted above about emotions, and well, STAY separated during this small window of time, negotiations and closing - Your agent (ME) is not connected to your property in the same way you are, so follow her lead during this time.
Not staging & decluttering- Do not take this personally, but as much as you love your decor and everything you have done with the place, different people have different styles. You have personalized and customized your home to fit your needs and likes - buyers want to see themselves in the space the way they like it, with their photos, and decor, so DECLUTTER and stage (a little), less is better, and you will thank me when you make A LOT more money for doing #3.