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If you’re like most homeowners, you list your home on Zillow to get the widest possible exposure for your property. While this is certainly a good strategy, other alternatives can be even more effective. Come with us as we explore some of these alternatives and discuss how to maximize exposure for your home.
Why List Your Home on Zillow?
Zillow is one of the most popular real estate websites, with millions of visitors every month. Homeowners who list their homes on Zillow can get a lot of exposure for their property. However, there are some drawbacks to listing your home on Zillow.
First, you have to pay a fee to list your home on the site. Second, you don’t have as much control over how your home is presented on Zillow as you do with other listing sites. Finally, potential buyers who find your home on Zillow may not be as serious about buying as those who find your home through other channels.
Alternatives to List Your Home on Zillow
If you’re looking for alternatives to listing your home on Zillow, here are a few options to consider:
List Your Home on the MLS
The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is a database of homes for sale that is used by real estate agents. If you list on MLS, it will be exposed to a large number of potential buyers and their agents. There is typically a fee to list your home on the MLS, but it is usually much less than the fee you would pay to list your home on Zillow.
List Your Home on a National Listing Site
There are several national listing sites, such as Realtor.com and Homes.com, that allow homeowners to list their homes for sale. These sites typically have more traffic than Zillow and provide more tools and resources for homeowners.
List Your Home on a Local Listing Site
If you want to list your home on a site that is specific to your city or region, there are several local listing sites, such as Redfin and Trulia, that you can use. These sites usually have less traffic than national listing sites but can be more effective in reaching potential buyers in your area.
How to Maximize Exposure for Your Home
No matter which site you list your home on, there are a few things you can do to maximize exposure for your property:
Make Sure Your Listing Is Complete and Accurate
Potential buyers will quickly lose interest in your home if they find inaccurate or incomplete information in your listing. Be sure to include all the relevant details about your home, such as square footage, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, and any special features or amenities.
Include High-Quality Photos
In today’s market, potential buyers expect to see high-quality photos of homes for sale. Be sure to hire a professional photographer to take pictures of your home that show it in its best light.
Use Keywords in Your Listing
When potential buyers search for homes online, they often use specific keywords, such as “golf course community” or “walk to schools.” Use these keywords in your listing so that your home will come up in these searches.
The Benefits of Using a Real Estate Agent
If you’re not sure how to list your home or maximize exposure for your property, working with a real estate agent can be a great option. Real estate agents have the experience and knowledge to help you list your home in the most effective way possible. In addition, they can provide valuable resources and advice throughout the selling process.
Questions You Should Ask a Potential Real Estate Agent
If you’re considering working with a real estate agent, be sure to ask them the following questions:
- How long have you been in business?
- How many homes have you sold?
- What is your marketing strategy?
- What are your fees?
- When can I expect my home to sell?
The Benefits of Selling Your Home by Owner
If you’re not interested in working with a real estate agent, you can list your home for sale by owner. Selling your home by owner can be a great way to save money on commissions. However, it is important to note that selling your home by owner generally requires more work on your part and may take longer to sell your home.
In Closing: Tips for Preparing Your Home for Sale
Once you’ve decided how to list your home, there are a few things you can do to prepare your home for sale. The following tips will help you get started:
- Declutter and depersonalize your home.
- Make any necessary repairs or updates.
- Stage your home so that it is appealing to potential buyers.
- Create a marketing plan to promote your home.
Listing your home on Zillow is a good way to get exposure for your property. However, other alternatives can be even more effective. If you follow these tips, you’ll be well on your way to selling your home quickly and for the best possible price.