5 Ways to Sell Investment Property in a Tough Market 

These days we are always hearing, "It's a horrible market for sellers" , the truth is, the market is only unattractive for unreasonable sellers. Put these tips into action and sell your property faster.

When the going gets touch, the touch get going. Get tough with your expectations, you need to be the best, standing out from the rest.

1) "Simply Stage" your vacant homes/investment properties. Many of you watch the home staging shows and get lots of ideas but simple is best. Key areas need your attention and less is more. Add a colorful shower curtain, towels and rug. Make the kitchen inviting with some towels, a cookbook and a couple of wine glasses. A bowl of fake fruit make a boring counter top more interesting. A cafe table and pair of chairs work great to add depth to a dining room and a few attractive silk plants can add much needed splash of color. Empty bedrooms seem to look smaller than they actually are. Use a single or double air mattress on top of boxes and make the bed to show how furniture can be placed.

2) Contact a knowledgeable mortgage lender to create financing fliers unique to your property. These foyers should offer various loan programs and show potential buyers how affordable your property can be for them. Make sure the fliers also mention the $8,000.00 home buyer tax credit (if appropriate) and also any specialized loan programs offered in your area (such as state-sponsored down payment assistance, interest rate buydown or energy-efficient programs).

3) Know your competition and keep your eye on them. Price your investment property $100 below the lowest priced comparable property - that will almost guarantee your property is viewed before the others because it will show up first on the list. Take the time to view your competition whenever possible and make sure you look better than them. Analyze your competition regularly to make sure you remain competitive.

4) Offer closing cost assistance. Buyers in this real estate market are scared to part with their cash. Approximately 3% of the sales price should cover the buyers closing costs. If there are eight other properties just like yours on the market, offer a flat screen TV, 6 months of condo dues, or some other perk to set your property apart.

5) Have your property professionally photographed. Pictures are the first impression for the 85% of the buyers who start searching the internet.

For more ideas join others and get your personal feed. We encourage comments and will be happy to answer questions. Contact us at marcia@minocquamortgage.com or go to www.minocquamortgage.com