By Barbara Chartier, Century 21 Coastal Lifestyles

BUYERS CONTROL SALES PRICES IN TODAY’S MARKET. If you want to sell your property, you have to price it to attract buyers.

Of course, sellers set the asking price… and they can refuse to sell if they don’t get it. That’s why the inventory of homes and condos is so high here in Myrtle Beach… there’s a buyer / seller standoff. And that’s why so few condos and homes are selling… they’re priced too high.

Buyers are shopping for “best buys”… and price is their starting point.

HOW TO PRICE “BEST BUYS” – Four Factors

• LOCATION: You can’t change your location, but you can price your property to make it the “best buy” in its location. That’s why a comparative market analysis of recently sold properties like yours is essential. Make sure you aren’t comparing apples and oranges. An experienced realtor can provide you with that information. Price must reflect location.

• CONDITION: Your property must be well maintained and in good condition… that’s your responsibility. Fix it, clean it and paint it to bring it up to “move-in” condition. Buyers don’t want “fixer-uppers” unless they’re offered at deeply discounted prices. An experienced realtor can recommend cost effective improvements that will appeal to buyers and make your property a “best buy.” Price must reflect condition.

• INCENTIVES: You can attract more potential buyers by offering a home warranty, or by paying some of the buyer’s closing costs. Incentives can be property specific, e.g. reduced golf fees, or even a golf cart. Buyer agent selling bonuses can result in more showings. An experienced realtor can suggest incentives that would be appropriate for your property. Price must reflect incentives.

• MARKET: You can’t change market conditions… they are what they are. Inventories are high, sales are slow, and prices keep drifting lower. Time is working for buyers… the longer they wait, the less they pay. If you want to sell, price your property to sell quickly. Sellers typically lower their prices too little, too late. An experienced realtor can help you stay ahead of the market. Prices must reflect the current market.

DECIDING TO SELL – it’s not an easy decision in today’s market. Many owners remember a few years back when they controlled prices. They set their asking prices above the market and sold their property in a few weeks. But, those days are gone and won’t return for another few years. Real estate markets go in cycles.

In this market, owner’s need a realtor friend who will give them an honest assessment of their property’s worth in today’s market. This market does not favor sellers. You may just want to hold on to your property and wait for it to turn around in a few years. But, if you do decide to sell, price it to sell quickly.

MYRTLE BEACH IS MY BUSINESS. Century 21 Coastal Lifestyles has been in business here for 30 years… we know the market. If you are not currently working with a realtor, I’d be happy to work with you. You can expect personal attention and professional service. And I’ll help you price your property as a “best buy” in today’s market.

You’ve got a friend in me.

Call me at 843-902-0204, or email me at barbara.chartier@century21.com . Or, visit my website at www.BarbaraChartier.com .