A progressive market can be a great time to reap the rewards of your current real estate investment allowing you to afford to make gains into an even higher market. When preparing to sell your home or property there are several questions you should ask yourself first:

• What is the current state of the real estate market; rising, falling or staying even?
• Is your homes value based on the actual neighborhood sales prices?
• How many homes are for sale and in competition in your area right now?
• How does your home compare with those currently for sale in your area?
• How long have neighboring homes been on the market for? Too long? If so why?
• Is your home consistent in size and style compared to the other homes?
• Have you made improvements to your home that will actually increase the value?
• Which improvements will not increase the value?
• Are your financial needs influencing your asking price?
• Are you willing to price appropriately and stand firm?
• Will you make gains in this market by selling and buying up?
• Are the benefits of moving important enough to price your home realistically according to current market values?

What are the benefits to proper pricing?

• Faster sales saves on carrying costs.
• Less inconvenience in the time and effort required to keep a home "show" ready.
• An accurate market value will attract more people who can afford to purchase.
• Salespeople will make extra efforts to contact potential buyers when they are excited about the sales potential.
• When prices are not a deterrent you will receive more interest from realtors and purchasers alike.

The majority of activity on a new listing occurs in the early initial period of marketing. Sellers should have their homes in the best condition at the best price at the first exposure to the market. It is at this time that your realtor and other interested realtors will make every effort to contact all potential purchasers they have accumulated to date. If your home is priced right, it will generate excitement and a lot of interest. It is this initial interest you want to create in order to achieve your asking price, or if you are lucky, even generate a competition of bids. Accurate pricing is the key to a quick and successful sale.