Set the right price for your property, avoiding the temptation to overprice. Over pricing a property almost always results in the property sitting on market a long time with no offers.  After a while, you will need to reduce the price to draw offers, and all the while everyone sees the property has been sitting and assumes it is not desirable or that something is wrong with the property.  This perception further drives down the market value.  Remember that all listing history including past list prices are available on the MLS so an over-pricing mistake will stay with you for months!  Over pricing by 10% can result in your property selling UNDER market value in the end!  In a hot market, consider pricing slightly lower to attract multiple competing offers over asking price and with better terms. In a slower market, aim for a price just above market value so there is room to negotiate with buyers while ensuring top dollar for you on the sale.

Consider the timing of your listing in relation to other properties in your area. Avoid competing with similar listings and aim to capitalize on recent high sales nearby. If possible, list immediately after high sales in your area and wait longer after any low-priced sales to maximize your property's value. Timing your sale correctly, alongside with accurate pricing, is one of the most important variables affecting the successful sale of your property for top dollar.  If you are listing a condo for sale, avoid listing it at the same time as similar layouts in your building - you do not want to compete for the same buyer. An experienced agent will know the changing market trends from week to week, as well as have a finger on the pulse of past sales, current for sales, and upcoming listings in an area.

Invest in physical and virtual staging to maximize your property's appeal. Create a calm, clean, and neutral space that allows potential buyers to envision themselves living in the home. Staged properties consistently sell for significantly higher prices. Your agent can connect you with staging professionals and may even cover some of the expenses.

Ensure your property is available for showings to every interested buyer. A couple open houses are not enough! Each viewing represents an opportunity for an offer. Never decline a showing request, and work with an agent who guarantees easy access for agents, represented clients and unrepresented consumers.  Create a buzz in the neighbourhood and on social media!

If you have a tenant, work closely with them to ensure access to the suite will be possible with fair and reasonable notice.  Your REALTOR can help coordinate the showing schedule with your tenant after an initial conversation and introduction and help reduce the stress for your tenants as well.

Hire cost-effective cleaners recommended by your agent. Spending a few hundred dollars on professional cleaning can result in thousands of dollars in increased sale price. Pay particular attention to kitchens and bathrooms and declutter and clean closets where possible.

Trim your lawn, trim your hedges, rake the leaves and remove any clutter from your yard. Your agent can connect you with a reliable landscaper or handymen if assistance is needed.  Clean up and put away kids toys, backyard tools, and untidy patio furniture where possible.

Consider conducting a professional pre-inspection on any systems that are evident and would raise concerns for buyers. This provides reassurance and increases the likelihood of receiving offers, particularly from cautious or first-time buyers.  Consult with your agent regarding defects that must be disclosed to buyers in order to reduce liability and prevent trouble down the road.

Address minor cosmetic blemishes without overspending. A small investment in touch-ups can make a significant difference in the perceived value of your property. Consider painting mismatched panels or siding, install missing electrical outlet covers, fix any broken door knobs, replace burned out light bulbs and consider light painting touch ups throughout the interior.

Always include a virtual tour online, accompanied by a detailed 2D top down floor plan with measurements for each room. This enhances the buyer's experience and allows them to visualize the layout of the property. Photos and videos alone as not enough.

Declutter your house in order of priority starting with main living spaces, kitchen and bathrooms, then bedrooms, then closets and then your garage.  Consider renting a storage POD or container for temporary storage.  Your REALTOR can connect you with the most cost-effective options and help to make the arrangements. A neutral, tidy place almost always sell for tens of thousands more. It's always worth it!