You checked the comps and the price is right, but you’ve gone weeks without an offer. Time to face the facts: No one wants to buy your home. Here’s why.
For starters, your house might lack curb appeal. Real-estate agents are in agreement: If you can’t get buyers past the front yard, you’re not going to get them in the front door. Mulch the beds, wash the windows and clean the gutters.
Second, you might need to declutter. Buyers want to see your home’s potential, not your kid’s finger-painting. Remove personal items, from family photos to artwork on the fridge. Also, clear out closets and put excess furniture in storage. Your home will look more spacious.
From just $107.88 $24.99 for Kiplinger Personal Finance
Become a smarter, better informed investor. Subscribe from just $107.88 $24.99, plus get up to 4 Special Issues
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
Third – and no offense – your house might smell. Pet odors are bad, but agents say cigarette smoke is the worst. Fresh paint, fresh air and professional carpet cleaning will help.
-
Fed's Rate Cuts Could Have Impacts You Might Not AnticipateUnderstanding how lower interest rates could impact your wallet can help you determine the right financial moves to make.
-
Past Performance Is Not Indicative of Your Adviser's ExpertiseMany people find a financial adviser by searching online or asking for referrals from friends or family. This can actually end up costing you big-time.
-
I'm want to give my 3 grandkids $5K each for Christmas.You're comfortably retired and want to give your grandkids a big Christmas check, but their parents are worried they might spend it all. We ask the pros for help.
-
Could Tax Savings Make a 50-Year Mortgage Worth It?Buying a Home The 50-year mortgage proposal by Trump aims to address the housing affordability crisis with lower monthly mortgage payments. But what does that mean for your taxes?
-
15 Cheapest Small Towns to Live InThe cheapest small towns might not be for everyone, but their charms can make them the best places to live for plenty of folks.
-
Before Buying Your First Home, Get These Three Ducks in a RowWith mortgage rates higher than we're used to, making sure you can comfortably afford to buy your first home is more important than ever.
-
Is Home Insurance Required? Not Necessarily, But That Doesn't Mean You Should Drop ItHome insurance is required by most mortgage lenders. But even if your home is paid off, does it make financial sense to drop coverage?
-
Five Ways to Shop for a Low Mortgage RateBecoming a Homeowner Mortgage rates are high this year, but you can still find an affordable loan with these tips.
-
Should You Rent in Retirement?Making Your Money Last Renting isn't right for all retirees, but it does offer flexibility, and it frees up cash.
-
Property Tax 101: What Homeowners Need to KnowProperty Tax No one likes to pay property tax, but knowing how these taxes work might make the situation more bearable.
-
5 Great Places to Buy a Vacation HomeWant a vacation home for remote work or a fun getaway? Here are locations with median prices under $500K.
