
Selling your home in Los Angeles is a significant financial decision, and if done correctly, it can net you the most money, help you sell within your desired time frame, and reduce stress. While the idea of selling might seem daunting, breaking it down into manageable steps will ensure a smoother process and ultimately lead to a successful transaction.
Plan Your Next Move
Before listing your home, the most critical question is: What happens after the sale? Whether you’re downsizing, upsizing, or using the sale’s proceeds to pay off debt, you need a solid exit strategy. Are you staying in the city, moving out of state, or investing elsewhere? Without a clear plan, you risk finding yourself under contract with no place to go, which can jeopardize the sale.
This step is particularly important because it guides your entire selling process. Are you aiming to sell quickly due to pre-foreclosure, or do you have more flexibility because you’re generating rental income? Your time frame directly impacts pricing, marketing, and negotiations.
Selling As-Is or Renovating?
Once you have a plan, the next question is whether to sell your home “as-is” or make repairs and renovations. Not every fix is worth the cost or time, so it’s essential to weigh four key factors: market conditions, repair costs, liabilities, and your timeline. Don’t get into the remodeling business unless that’s what you do professionally.
In some cases, making cosmetic repairs can boost your home’s appeal. In other instances, particularly in a hot market, selling as-is may be more efficient. If you’re not sure, consult with your realtor, but always start by making a list of known upgrades and defects. Was the roof replaced two years ago? Write it down. Did a fire damage the kitchen? Write that down too. Every detail helps potential buyers see the full picture.
Tell Your Home’s Story
One often overlooked but vital aspect of selling your home is telling its story. Buyers want more than just facts; they want to connect emotionally. As a homeowner, you’re in the best position to share meaningful details that no one else knows. For example, if you’ve experienced the most breathtaking sunsets from your backyard, share that.
Crafting a narrative around your home helps buyers envision their future there. I once sold a home where the seller pointed out a specific spot on the terrace where he and his wife enjoyed their morning coffee. Sharing that detail during an open house gave buyers a personal connection, making the property feel more special and, ultimately, more valuable.
Setting the Right List Price
One of the most crucial elements of selling your home is setting the right list price. The list price is not the market value or an appraisal figure; it’s a strategic number designed to attract the right buyers. When pricing your home, you’ll need to analyze both your competition and the properties that have already won—those that have sold within the last 90 days.
Ignore homes that have been on the market for 400+ days without selling. Those are not your competitors—they’ve already lost the game. Your goal is to price competitively, make a great first impression, and stand out from other listings. Pricing too high could cost you valuable time, while pricing too low may leave money on the table.
Preparing for Showings and Staging
First impressions are everything. Before you allow buyers to walk through your home, consider how it presents compared to others. Does your home need to be staged, virtually staged, or will it show better empty? Full staging works best for vacant homes, while partial staging, using a mix of your own furniture and a few key staging pieces, is ideal if you’re still living in the property.
Staging helps buyers visualize how they might live in the space, but beware of going overboard, especially in small rooms. If a room feels cramped due to oversized furniture, it’s better to leave it empty or opt for digital staging. Just make sure the digital staging looks professional, as poorly executed staging can do more harm than good.
Don’t forget curb appeal—trim overgrown vegetation, mow the lawn, and consider some simple landscaping. Outdoor staging can also be a game-changer, especially if you have a pool, cabana, or gazebo.
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Photography and Marketing
Once your home is prepped, it’s time for professional photography. You may also want to consider additional options such as 3D tours, floor plans, or even aerial photography to showcase your property’s best features. Twilight photography can add a luxurious feel to your listing, especially for properties with impressive outdoor spaces.
When marketing your home, make it available for showings through private appointments or open houses, depending on what suits your schedule best. If you’re still living in the home, be prepared for some disruptions and consider carrying a stack of business cards to hand out to any curious visitors who stop by unannounced.
I am Matias Baker Masucci, your trusted Los Angeles realtor. Thank you for reading, and I look forward to helping you with all your real estate needs in Beverly Hills.
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