Since the bubble popped in 2008, laymen and women have struggled to understand the U.S. Housing Market. Is the economy recovering? Are interest rates stable? Is now the right time to sell? Does anyone know? 

The short answer is, “Yes.”

So far, 2017 has already seen fewer homes on the market and faster moving markets than in previous years. In short, that means it’s a seller’s market.

Manager of Economic Research at Realtor.com, Javier Vivas, explains the situation like this: “We’re already in the thick of the most frenzied spring home buying season on record. We have already seen the biggest drop (in the amount of time a house remains on the market) since the end of the recession, and half of homes are now selling in less than 69 days nationally. Low inventory continues to be a significant problem…”

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) agrees that inventory of existing homes remains at historic lows. This is especially true in warmer climates, such as Southern California, where the spring selling-season starts early. For prospective sellers, this means that if you are planning to sell your Redlands home this year, now is the time to pull the trigger. While your real estate agent prepares advertising and schedules home tours, you should focus on making sure your house is ready to sell.  

5 Things to Do Before You List Your Home

1. Curb Appeal – First impressions count. Make sure your home not only shows well, but also looks great online and on film, since listings rely heavily on pics. Look at your place with fresh eyes, since people tend to automatically eliminate clutter when they see something familiar. If you can’t be objective, rely on family and friends to point out potential eyesores. But don’t let yourself get swallowed by minutia. Investing in your house’s exterior will bring more house hunters to your front door. So, consider replacing or touching up tired landscaping, roofing, gutters, siding, front door and paint. And, put out the welcome mat (literally)! For as little as $5, this small touch makes a big statement.  
2. Repairs. Let prospective buyers know you have taken care of the entire home by focusing on small fixes. Relatively minor repairs like replacing torn screens and faded house numbers will make all the difference. If damage is more severe, such as a leaky roof or badly worn carpet, discuss steps with your realtor, who will be able to advise you about how to get the most bang for your home repair buck.
   
3. Declutter & Depersonalize. Homeowners often make the mistake of displaying personal photographs and a strong sense of style while they are trying to sell. Experts recommend neutralizing homes to attract a wide range of prospective buyers. If your aesthetic is shabby chic, for example, clear tchotchkes and remove everything that communicates that décor, so you won’t scare away someone who prefers a more minimalistic Mid-century modern decorating approach.

4. Organize. Although you probably don’t reorganize closets before hosting a dinner party, you should do so when you list your house. The reason? House hunters are nosey…not about your clothes and personal effects but about available storage space. If your closets are messy, they will think the house doesn’t have enough room for their clothes, even if closets are generous.
5. Clean. One of the easiest, least expensive ways to improve the appearance of your house is to clean it up. With a few simple tools, like a vacuum, steam cleaner, broom, mop and a pack of Magic Erasers, you should be able to do whatever it takes to make your house sparkle and shine. If you’re short on time, consider hiring a maid service, which can make quick work of the cleanup.

When it comes time to list your Redlands home, call Keller Williams Realtor Candace Cantu McGloin is qualified and willing to help home buyers and sellers across Southern California. She specializes in the cities of Redlands, Highland, Yucaipa, Grand Terrace, and Loma Linda but has done transactions both on the buying and selling side throughout Southern California. To learn more about real estate in Redlands or the Inland Empire or to list your home, call Candace directly at (951) 201-2443.