Whether you are getting a valuation, or searching for your next investment property, these tips from RealRenta should give you an edge in today’s competitive market:

• Open Houses are more about the Agent.

The majority of visitors to Open Houses are probably nosy neighbours and agents love this, as it gives them a chance to hand out their business card and potentially find new clients.

• The way your house smells matters

Incense and Air Fresheners turn a lot of people off. People are more attracted to the smell of freshly baked bread or cake or freshly brewed coffee.

• Don’t get offended by low-ball offers

You have a better chance of landing a sale with a person who gives you a low ball offer than finding someone new, especially in this kind of market.

• Read before you sign

Make sure you read the listing/buyers contract carefully, as there may be an extra “admin fee” on top of the standard commission, which is not negotiable.

• Beware of agents who try to “Buy Your Listing”

Agents who overestimate your property’s selling price are hoping that you will choose them over other agents who will price your property more realistically.

• Don’t always trust desktop appraisals

Desktop appraisal systems, assess how much commensurate properties with similar square footage, have sold for, but they don’t consider the interior of the property. Always seek an appraisal from more than one source.

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