"My ex-husband and I are selling our home and I'd like to make certain that we get the most we can for it. Any suggestions?"

Every home seller's goal is to get the best price. To maximize your potential, there are several things you can do:

1. Curb appeal. Detail the exterior of your home to welcome potential buyers and encourage them to make an appointment to see the interior. First impressions are very important, so make a good one!
   
2. Check the mechanical systems and roof. These are big ticket items to a buyer, and their condition can affect the price you get for your home. If you can't afford or don't want to replace older items, allow for this in your pricing of the home. Offering a Home Warranty to the buyer can help, too.
   
3. Clear the clutter. When a potential buyer enters your home, be sure their attention is focused on the home itself instead of your personal items. Try this: walk into your kitchen and notice what your attention is drawn to first. Is it the size of the kitchen, the amount of counter space available, and the quality of appliances, or is it the "stuff" that's on the counters, sink, floors, etc.? Keep in mind that all areas of the home need to be clutter-free.
   
4. "Stage" the home. In addition to removing clutter and clearing space, you may need to rearrange furniture and furnishings to make the home show well. You may also need to replace broken or worn items, touch-up or re-paint, do minor (but important) repairs, and have the house thoroughly cleaned before you're ready to show it. Seek the advice of your real-estate agent to assist you in deciding what really needs to be done.
   
5. Price it correctly. What you need to realize from the sale is not related to the home's true market value. Assess the information you receive from the real-estate professionals you have interviewed, and price your home competitively within your market area. If you're unsure, ask your Realtor to take you to see other properties currently on the market.

Georgia S. Pierini, CRS, ABR, GRI, is a broker and Certified Relocation Specialist with Baird & Warner Residential Inc., serving Chicagoland.

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