The vibrant city of San Jose is full of historical charm and beautiful architecture. It is also a technology and innovation hub, bringing businesses and entrepreneurs to the heart of Silicon Valley. With its mild climate, diverse natural landscapes, and extensive trail and park systems, it is easy for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy nature all year round. There is a focus on public art, numerous performing arts facilities, and multiple sports teams to enjoy.
San Jose offers quick access to everything, including its scenic destinations, businesses, and upscale metropolitan amenities, so it is easy to see why it attracts many potential buyers. If you are ready to sell your San Jose home, this guide will help you quickly attract discerning buyers looking for a dynamic living experience.
Preparing to sell your San Jose home
When preparing to sell a house in San Jose, there are a few things you'll want to do before creating a listing. The goal is to make your experience as quick, straightforward, and beneficial as possible, so being proactive is key.
Interview potential real estate agents
When selling property, you want an experienced real estate agent on your team. Interviewing a few potential agents will help you find someone you're comfortable with and who understands your needs. You want to seek out someone with significant experience as a selling agent, a strong sense of the local real estate market, and a keen eye for detail. An agent ready to stand by your side and seek your best interests will make the process less stressful.
Determine your home's value with the help of a real estate agent
One of the reasons you need a skilled agent is to help you find your home's value. An experienced agent will use various reliable methods to determine an accurate value, which will help arrive at the listing price. These methods may include an appraisal, online valuation tools, and local comps. After assessing the value of your home, your agent will look at market trends and recent sales to help you set a realistic listing price.
Upgrade your home to improve its value
One way to increase your home's value is through upgrades. Many upgrades and home improvements will have a good return on investment (ROI), so choosing the right project is important. Some remodeling projects have a lower ROI and may not be worth the time and money. The 2023 Cost vs. Value report indicates that for the Pacific region, HVAC Conversions (Electrification) recoup more than 100% of the cost. On average, siding and garage door replacements recoup 96% or more of the costs, while bathroom remodels only recoup 62.5% of the project cost. Carefully consider what the home needs and what will matter to buyers in your area, especially for aesthetically specific projects.
Staging your home to create a vision
When it comes to attracting buyers, there are several things you can do to increase interest. Staging your home is one of the most critical steps. You want to make a lasting first impression, so hiring a professional stager can enhance this step dramatically. A stager will help you declutter and organize, and they are skillful at sprucing up rooms and arranging furniture to create a positive impression. Buyers are looking at other homes in the area, and your home has to stand out. According to the National Association of Realtors's 2023 Profile of Home Staging, here are some staging suggestions to consider.
- Living rooms, master bedrooms, and kitchens are the most important rooms to stage from a buyer's perspective.
- Staged homes may sell faster and receive higher-value offers than similar non-staged homes on the market.
- Buyers' agents believe that staging a home makes it easier for clients to visualize the house as a future home.
Selling your home
After you consult with your agent and prepare your home for the market, it's time to let their experience and expertise shine as they list your home.
Listing and marketing strategies
Your agent will list your home to make it more visible to prospective buyers. They may start with a listing on the multiple listing service, though some homes also warrant a single property website when they have extensive or unique features to showcase. A descriptive listing that includes eye-catching photographs will help bring attention to your home. Your agent's marketing strategy may also include a variety of promotional techniques, such as social media, to create a solid online presence.
Host open houses and virtual tours
Be open to allowing your agent to host an open house. Not only does it create interest with potential buyers, but it also puts your home in front of other agents to share with their clients. A virtual tour is also valuable as it allows interested parties to "tour" your property from anywhere in the world. Virtual tours benefit buyers since they can attend on their terms.
Negotiations: Cash vs. traditional offers
Generally, when a buyer presents a cash offer, they are serious and willing to fight to win a bidding war. Sellers benefit from cash offers because they do not have to worry about a lack of funds on the buyer's side, contingencies, or a long process. Traditional offers may work better for sellers still searching for their new home or wanting to maximize profits. Consider your needs and timeframe from the start to decide more efficiently — no matter what offers you receive.
FAQs: Selling your San Jose home
How long does it take to sell a home in San Jose?
The length of time it takes will vary depending on various factors. If houses are saturating the market or your home is not comparable to other houses, it may take longer. A well-maintained home in a desirable neighborhood with fewer competitors will move more quickly.
How can I get the most money for my San Jose home?
Your agent is on your team. They will discuss curb appeal, repairs and upgrades, staging, and other ways to increase your home's value. They understand marketing and will negotiate for you, so trust their strategy and work with them for the best results.
Can I sell my San Jose home without a real estate agent?
In theory, anyone can sell their home without the assistance of an agent. However, an experienced agent will likely help you sell your house more quickly, for more money, and with less stress than doing it alone. Agents have the knowledge, skill, and professional connections to get your home in front of the right buyer and to help you through any potential challenges.
How to achieve top results when selling your San Jose home
Partnering with a successful agent is the first step to a profitable real estate transaction. The Virgilio Team has extensive experience throughout Silicon Valley and will work closely with you to provide real results. They work closely with clients to build strong partnerships, communicate effectively, and deliver a superior client experience every time. Contact The Virgilio Team today to learn more!
*Header photo courtesy of Shutterstock
