Condo Selling 101

Identify Selling Points

When you list a condo on the market you need to provide a description and property details, which are used by buyers and real estate agents to search for homes through a database. Categories such as number of bedrooms, square footage and price are pretty cut and dry, but there are other elements of your condo that can make it stand out to condo shoppers.

Whether you are selling For Sale By Owner or hiring a real estate agency to list for you, you will need to identity your condo's key selling points to promote it to the buyer. The big benefit in selling a condo is that you can use both unit and building features to advertise your property. If the condominium has a swimming pool or exercise center, you can include those amenities in your listing to capture buyer interest.

But let's start with the unit itself. What are the selling points in your particular condo unit? Go room by room and note what the most appealing attributes are. In the kitchen, for example, write down the brand name and age of appliances, flooring material, counter type, cabinet height and material, built-ins (pantry or shelving), lighting fixtures, wall color, faucet and sink style, whether it's an eat-in kitchen, has an island/breakfast bar, etc. Get as specific as possible. Do this for each room. Don't forget to include the mechanicals (HVAC, plumbing, electrical), windows (if they offer a benefit such as energy-efficiency), and wiring for audio, Internet, cable, etc. Chances are you won't use everything you wrote down for the listing, but now it is all in front of you to pick out which are the best aspects to showcase.

What about the building amenities? Write these down, too. Everything from valet service to common outdoor space. Biggies that buyers love are additional storage space, parking, fitness facilities and security. You can also highlight conveniences in close proximity to the building, such as public transportation, dining, shopping, grocers, parks, schools, coffee shops, etc. For many buyers, what's in the vicinity of a condo is almost as important as the unit itself. If you live in a "hot" neighborhood or excellent school district, let buyers know about it! Remember that classic saying "Location! Location! Location!" It still rings true, so incorporate that in your selling points as well.

Photographs have become a standard part of property listings, especially when your condo is listed online and buyers are able to watch virtual tours and view multiple pictures from their computers. According to a National Association of Realtors study, 86% of buyers find property photographs the most valuable feature when looking for homes on web sites. For this reason, it is recommended to have a professional photograph your condo. However, if you want to do it yourself, here are some tips for capturing your condo in the best light.

1. Use a digital camera so all photos can be put online
2. Take photos during the day for the best natural light
3. Open all blinds and drapes
4. Turn on all lights to brighten the space even more
5. Tidy and clear all clutter from view and make the bed
6. Set the camera on a tripod or stationary vantage point for less blurring
7. Take an exterior photo from across the street
8. Snap several photos of each space from different angles for a complete view