Before you attempt to sell your Columbus home, do some research on the often unexpected costs that sellers are responsible for. By learning more about the costs of selling a house in Columbus, you can be better prepared and may avoid any financial surprises.

Contrary to popular belief, simply contacting a real estate agent in Columbus and telling them about your property will not automatically result in it being listed and sold. In reality, there is quite a complicated process that goes into creating a successful MLS listing. This includes many smaller tasks completed by both the seller and their chosen real estate agent working together.

When you list your home on the MLS in Columbus, many sellers overlook a variety of expenses that they will have to pay, both upfront and when the property closes. A few of these costs are listed below.

Cleaning Costs

A professional home cleaning, in addition to treatments for carpets and exterior power washing, is crucial to the presentation of a home for buyers — despite your personal feelings about the state of the home. This option saves both money and time.

Once the cleaners have left, your job is not yet done. As the seller, you will need to keep the home clean for all of the people who want to come to see it. Someone may want to see the house in half an hour. To be able to accommodate as many potential buyers as possible, you’ll need to be able to show the property at the drop of a hat.

Staging Expenses

Many people believe that simply taking photographs of a home as-is will suffice. In reality, homes that are staged perform much better. If you’re unsure how to stage your home, consider hiring a professional, or maybe think about buying some inexpensive decorative items.

It’s important to know that not everyone will share your taste, so it’s best to stick with simple, classic, and neutral designs. This is where working with a professional designer can be extremely beneficial. There are some home sellers who attempt to stage their homes themselves, only professionally staging one or two rooms, such as the living room or kitchen, in order to save some money.

Storage Fees

If you’re struggling to find a place to keep all your belongings, renting out a storage unit could be the answer for you — even if it’s only for a few months. This will declutter your home and make it easier to sell when the time comes. Packing away unwanted items now will also save you time in the future when you move into your new home.

Extra Marketing

In Columbus, some real estate agents will only give you a home listing and barely put any effort into marketing it. If you want premium listings or professional photography, you might have to spend extra money. People sometimes expect to sell their house quickly in Columbus, and they don’t always anticipate having to pay for additional marketing services in order to make that happen.

Agent Reimbursements

Before you sign a listing agreement with a real estate agent, be sure to ask about fees. Some agents will work for a flat commission, while others may charge for expenses such as open houses, staging materials, or minor repairs. If you’re not careful, you may owe your agent more money than you anticipated at the closing table.

Time

Before selling your home, be sure to consider the opportunity cost of your time. In addition to costs like cleaning, repairs, and showings, selling your house will likely require a significant amount of time and effort. If you value your time away from work and family, you may want to weigh other options before putting your house on the market.

Selling your house directly in Columbus will help you avoid all the costs and hassle of working with a real estate agent. You’ll save time and money and be able to quickly resolve any difficulties you’re having with the property.

At Offer Express, we know all about the costs and headaches of selling a home. We buy houses in Columbus, Ohio with our own money–that’s why we’re here to offer you a solution that is quick and easy! Contact us today at (614) 820-5777 and see how much your home is really worth!