Selling your home is a significant decision, and with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide on the best route. Whether you’re moving to a new city, upgrading to a bigger home, or downsizing, the process requires careful thought and planning. As a trusted real estate advisor in the Denver Metro area, I’ve helped countless clients navigate the ins and outs of selling their homes, and today, I’m excited to share the best home selling options that can lead you to a successful sale.
In this guide, we’ll explore different selling strategies, the advantages of each approach, and how you can leverage my expertise to achieve the best possible outcome for your home sale.
I’m thrilled to share the highlights from my recent TV segment, Informed Decisions. For those of you considering selling your home this spring, this post is for you!
Understanding Your Selling Options
When you’re thinking about selling your home, it’s important to understand all the options available to you. In a world of For Sale by Owner (FSBO), auctions, off-market deals, selling to investors, and working with real estate agents, the choices can quickly become overwhelming. Each method has its benefits and drawbacks, which is why it’s essential to carefully evaluate which route aligns with your goals, timeframe, and financial expectations.
1. For Sale by Owner (FSBO)
Selling your home on your own, without a real estate agent, might seem like an appealing way to save on commission fees. However, while the potential for saving money is there, many sellers find it difficult to handle all the responsibilities of selling a home, including marketing, negotiations, paperwork, and legalities. FSBO can work in specific circumstances—such as if you already have a buyer lined up—but for most sellers, it can lead to lower sale prices due to limited market exposure.
2. Auctioning Your Home
Home auctions are another option for sellers looking to sell quickly. The auction process can create a sense of urgency among buyers, potentially driving up the price. However, it’s crucial to understand that auction results are unpredictable, and you may end up with less than expected if demand doesn’t match your price point. This option is often more suited to properties with unique characteristics or in high-demand areas.
3. Selling Off-Market
An off-market sale involves selling directly to a buyer without listing your property on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Some homeowners prefer this route to avoid the hassle of open houses and showings. Off-market sales are typically private transactions and may involve fewer negotiations. However, this method often limits exposure to a broader pool of potential buyers, which can result in a lower selling price. While off-market deals can be convenient, they may not always lead to the highest offer.
4. Selling to an Investor
Selling to an investor can be an attractive option if you’re looking for a quick, hassle-free sale. Investors are usually ready to purchase homes as-is, which can be beneficial if your property needs repairs or if you need to sell quickly. However, the trade-off is that investors typically offer less money for the property since they are purchasing it at a discount in exchange for taking on the cost of repairs and renovations. This route may be ideal for those in a time crunch or who need to sell a distressed property but isn’t always the best option if maximizing your sale price is the priority.
5. Working with a Real Estate Agent
Working with a knowledgeable and experienced real estate agent remains one of the most effective ways to sell a home. The biggest advantage of listing your property with an agent is access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which exposes your property to a broad pool of buyers. In addition to listing the property, a great agent provides expertise in pricing, staging, negotiations, marketing, and navigating the entire selling process. As someone who has worked in the Denver Metro area for years, I understand how to position a home to attract competitive offers and guide you through the process to ensure you’re getting the best possible outcome.
Knowing Your ‘Why’ – The Foundation of Your Sale
Before deciding on the best home selling option, it’s important to understand your “why.” Are you selling because of a job relocation, family changes, or the desire to upgrade? What are your financial goals for the sale? Understanding your motivations can help shape the strategy that’s best for you.
Are you feeling stressed, uncertain, or overwhelmed by the process? You’re not alone. Many sellers experience anxiety, particularly in competitive or uncertain markets. A deep understanding of your goals and emotions will help us as a team create a customized approach for your sale. Whether you need to sell quickly, secure top dollar, or minimize disruption to your family, understanding your ‘why’ is essential for making informed decisions.
The Open Market Advantage: Why Listing Your Home on the MLS Is Key
A significant point I covered in my recent Informed Decisions TV segment is the overwhelming advantage of listing your property on the open market. A vast majority of sellers—around 89%—choose to list their homes through an agent and on the MLS. Why? Exposure. The MLS is the most effective way to showcase your home to a wide audience, which can lead to better offer prices and terms.
While alternative selling methods such as FSBO or off-market deals may seem appealing for their convenience, they often come with a trade-off of reduced visibility. Listing on the open market opens your property up to potential buyers who may be looking for something just like your home. As an agent, I have access to marketing tools and professional networks that ensure your property is well-represented and attracts serious buyers.
Spotlight on a Local Listing: Success in Action
Let me share a recent example. We recently worked with a homeowner in Arvada, near Olde Town, to sell a lovely three-bedroom, one-bath home. After some minor upgrades and staging, we listed the property on the MLS, and it quickly garnered significant interest. Within a week, the home sold at a competitive price, much higher than similar homes in the area. The seller was thrilled with the outcome, and the transaction went smoothly from start to finish. This success wasn’t an accident—it was the result of thoughtful planning, strategic pricing, and understanding market trends.
Choosing the Right Agent: Your Key to Success
In a market like 2023, with fluctuating interest rates and competition from other sellers, choosing the right agent is critical. Working with the right agent can make a world of difference. My team and I specialize in helping homeowners sell their properties for more money and in less time than the average seller. On average, our clients make an extra $16,000 on their home sale and sell in just 17 days (compared to the average 35 days on the market).
As a seasoned real estate professional, I bring a wealth of knowledge about the local market and the strategies that work best to get your home sold quickly and for the highest price possible. My approach isn’t one-size-fits-all—it’s tailored to your unique needs, goals, and timeline.
Navigating Complex Situations: Downsizing and Financial Planning
Sometimes, selling a home isn’t just about the sale itself; it’s also about how you use the funds from that sale to secure your next home. For those looking to downsize after living in a property for 20 years or more, I understand the complexities of accessing funds from your current home to purchase your next. With the right strategy and planning, it’s entirely possible to sell your home, access the equity, and purchase your forever home with ease.
The Home Sellers Guide: A Roadmap to Success
To ensure a smooth selling process, I offer my Home Sellers Guide—a comprehensive 20-page resource that covers everything from preparing your home for sale to understanding buyer psychology and handling negotiations. It’s not just about selling; it’s about setting you up for success every step of the way. The guide helps sellers understand the market, avoid common pitfalls, and make decisions that will lead to the best possible outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the best home selling options in Denver?
The best options often depend on your timeline and financial goals. For most sellers, listing on the MLS with a trusted real estate agent provides the widest exposure and the best chances of securing top dollar. However, alternatives like FSBO, auctions, or off-market deals may work in specific situations. - How long will it take to sell my home?
On average, homes in Denver sell within 17 days when listed with an agent. The timeline can vary based on factors like pricing, the condition of your home, and market conditions. - How do I choose the right real estate agent?
Look for an agent with a proven track record of success, excellent communication skills, and deep knowledge of the local market. Ask about their experience with homes similar to yours, and don’t hesitate to ask for references from past clients. - Should I sell my home off-market?
Selling off-market can be an option if you value privacy or don’t want to deal with the hassle of showings. However, you may miss out on potential buyers and could end up selling for less than you would have on the open market. - How can I increase the value of my home before selling?
Minor upgrades like fresh paint, landscaping, and kitchen or bathroom updates can significantly increase your home’s appeal and value. Staging is also a great way to make your home more attractive to potential buyers.
Embark on Your Selling Journey with Confidence
Selling your home doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right strategies and expert guidance, you can navigate the process with confidence and achieve a result you’re happy with. As your trusted advisor, I’m here to help you understand the best home selling options, provide you with personalized insights, and guide you through every step of the way.
If you are looking for quick hits on the market, follow me on LinkedIn to get daily insight. If I can help you strategize your next steps in real estate in the Denver metro or elsewhere across the U.S., please reply or book a call with me!