Everyone wants a place to call home, but that doesn’t guarantee that homeowners will have an easy time selling their properties. Making sales depend on more than just curb appeal or the popularity of open houses.

Complicated factors like the economy, interest rates and regional regulations all drive the real estate market. It can make an incredible impact on the speed and ease of real estate transactions.

But not knowing the state of the market can be more than just a hassle. When real estate favors buyers, not adjusting the sales strategy can be a seriously costly mistake. Worse than that, it risks homeowners not being able to sell the properties at all.

Here are some stress-free tips will help sell homes in a buyer’s market, fast.

Pretty It Up

One of the most cost-effective ways homeowners can complete real estate transactions is to pretty up their properties.

The trick is to think big. If it’s clean and the backyard is tidy, all that’s left for home owners to do is to create a decorating theme that looks good. Sometimes all that’s needed is some decluttering and decorating to be desirable.

Working on attractiveness brings buyers to open houses and make them actually want to live there. This initial urge can turn interest into offers.

Price It Smart

It may be painful to accept, but cutting down the potential profit for a sale can be the difference between a quick transaction and one that lags behind. Homeowners have to price their homes at a reasonable rate compared to similar properties.

It’s crucial for homeowners to remember that their home isn’t the only property available on the market. Unless it’s priced competitively, it’s going to be much harder to sell in market where buyers have the advantage.

Throw In Extras

While homeowners need to keep the look and price of their properties top of mind, they shouldn’t forget how powerful details can be. Sometimes it’s the little things that can sway buyers from purchasing one home over another.

New appliances, a beautiful garden or newly polished floors are features that stand out to buyers who’ve already seen dozens of other properties. In the end, an extra or two thrown in might be the clincher that closes the deal.

Keep in mind that it’s hard to sell a home in a buyer’s market, especially if the homeowner is looking for a quick sale. Homeowners should reach out to a reliable real estate expert to learn more about making a property sale fast.

We’re told not to judge a book by its cover, but there’s no such rule in the housing market. Curb appeal is the external attractiveness of a home, and if you’re in the market for a house that first impression has a lot to do with your final decision. Alternatively, if you’re looking to sell, it’s an easy area to boost the attractiveness of your home.

Essentially, ensure your home is accessible and inviting to make it appeal to potential buyers. It’s like making new friends, and how you’re much more likely to approach someone who is smiling. Help your home smile by spending a little time and money on outdoor seating, open spaces and color. Note that homes that have personality make stronger first impressions, so also try to put some of yourself into the exterior of your home.

A Place To Sit

Outdoor seating inspires relaxation, providing a great first impression. Potential buyers can pause and get a sense of the community without feeling rushed. They’ll take in the external features of your home in comfort, and will be primed to imagine themselves sitting out there as new homeowners, sunning or sipping tea.

An Open Entrance

Open your home up literally. Creating an uncluttered space in front of your home will help direct and draw buyers. Use pathways and lighting (lamps, candles) to clearly guide the way into your home. A well-lit pathway is not only visually appealing, but safer and a confusing entrance could deter buyers before they even reach your house.

A Dash Of Color

Color draws the eye. Add flowers to the front of your house, or paint the shutters brightly to attract attention from the street. This will also help your home look tidy and put-together.

A Strong Front Door

The front door is the focal point of anyone walking up to your house. Why not paint it your favorite color, or decorate it with something that gives an idea of the interior, like a funky door-knocker or a wreath? Make sure the door is clean and everything works (knob, bell, hinges) to complete the look.

A Personalized Mailbox

If you have a mailbox out front, you can give it the same personalizing treatment. Paint it, or plant it in a flowerbed. Keep it clean, functional and inviting, and it’ll add to the overall impression of your house.

Riff off these easy, cheap projects to increase your home’s curb appeal. Contact your local mortgage professional for more information.