How can this be? Everything sells in California…

Well, maybe eventually. Experts agree that getting the price correct right from the start is key. Price it competitively rather than hoping to find someone willing to overpay. Competitive pricing can often mean multiple offers and a bidding war. Overpricing can mean your house just sits without any offers, which isn’t good in any market.

Other strategies include:

• Upgrade your listing materials with high-quality photos and well thought-out descriptions
• Improve the curb appeal so potential buyers will picture themselves in their new home
• Tone down the interior by using neutral paint and removing personal items as much as possible

As we head into the busy real estate season, many will consider putting their home up for sale. Trulia’s excellent Real Estate 101 series highlights eight steps to get the maximum value for your home. The these tips are based on a Consumer Reports National Research Center survey that polled 303 real estate professionals all across the United States.

1. Clear out the clutter; consider simple staging
2. Clean, clean, clean!
3. First impressions are everything: spruce up the curb appeal
4. Watch the little details
5. Pay closest attention to the kitchen & bath
6. Take good photos of your property
7. Don’t try to do it all yourself: hire experts if needed
8. Keep your emotions out of it

Mostly common sense, to be sure, but skipping one detail can make a huge difference.

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