Selling fast and for top dollar are the main objectives for nearly all homeowners who put their homes on the market. However, with a cooler real estate market, bidding wars aren't as common these days, and sellers might have to put in a little bit of extra effort upfront to land their desired results. Our real estate agents are pros at helping sellers prepare their property for the market, so we pulled together a list of best practices to help you too.

• Take Care Of The Small Stuff
  As a general rule, you should make any home repairs that cost less than $100. Fix the broken doorknobs, recaulk around the windows, and resolve that leaky faucet. These things are easy to take care of, and they can also stick out like a sore thumb to potential buyers.
  
  
• Prioritize The Big Stuff
  If your home needs some major work, such as a new roof, upgraded appliances, or patio repairs, you'll want to prioritize where you invest your time and money. Not all upgrades generate a return, and you might be better off leaving these issues or negotiating these repair costs at closing. Some of our favorite Cleveland homes for sale have brand-new appliances, but other repairs might not generate a strong ROI. Work with your agent to determine how to prioritize large repairs and upgrades.
  
  
• Be Ready To Compromise
  Many sellers lose out on favorable offers because they're unwilling to negotiate. Whether it's compromising on repair costs or contingencies, an all-or-nothing mindset can easily cause a deal to fall through, which can lead to your home sitting on the market for far too long. Be clear on what you can and can't live without and be open to negotiating when necessary.
  
  
• Staging Is Key
  Home staging is the process of de-personalizing a home and adding neutral decor, so buyers can better envision themselves in the space. Staged homes tend to sell faster and for a higher price. Home staging can be tricky, so consider hiring a professional if you can.
  
  
• Accommodate Showings
  It can be inconvenient living in a home that's for sale, but it's important to allow showings whenever possible. You need to plan ahead and be ready at a moment's notice. You don't want to miss out on a great offer.

Ready to list your home on the market? Contact us today for more tips.