The Tribune

By MIKE LIGHTBOURN PERHAPS you've thought about selling your present home, but have put off that decision, thinking that now is not a good time to sell. Want some advice? Wait no longer! Consider what happens during the "bad times." Most homeowners want to sell their homes for the highest possible price in the shortest possible period of time. So, during those periods that are perceived as "a bad time to sell a home" or a "buyer's market," those homeowners put off their selling decision until a more favourable selling climate exists. Since the so-called "bad times" can last from a relatively short period to several years, a backlog of frustrated would-be sellers builds up. It is sort of like the force that builds up in a pressure cooker. Then, finally, comes the good news: "Home sales are rising - buyers are buying!" Guess what happens? Like the pressure cooker, the lid blows right off the top. Sellers begin to flood the market with homes to sell. The competition is incredibly fierce and prices must be competitive to generate a sale. The best time to sell a home is when you are ready to sell. Make sure your home is in top condition, price it properly and employ the best BREA professional available. Through careful planning, your house will sell successfully in any market! DON'T FORGET: How much you need is not necessarily how much you will receive on a sale. The market determines what a property can sell for. REMEMBER: Often the best offer you will get is the FIRST one! Mike Lightbourn is president of Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty.