Hey everyone, Michael LaFido here! I want to address something that could make a huge difference in your real estate journey, especially if you’re thinking about selling your home in Wheaton this year.
Here’s the shocking truth: Some Wheaton sellers are leaving anywhere from $50,000 to $150,000—or even more—on the table when they list their homes. And I’m seeing it way too often. That’s why I shot my latest video: to empower you with the knowledge and tools you need to get top dollar and avoid becoming one of those sellers.
In May, we’re still seeing a strong seller’s market with low inventory and real momentum carrying over from March and April. That means now is a fantastic time to sell, but it also means you need to be extra cautious with your pricing strategy. The biggest pitfall? Hiring agents who are either inexperienced, lazy, or just not paying attention to the data. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen homes in our area price way below what they should be—sometimes by $100,000 or more!
For example: I recently worked with clients who were advised by another agent (yes, one that even lives in their same neighborhood!) to price their home $150,000 less than where we ultimately listed it. Imagine how much they could have lost. Another nearby seller was told by that same agent to price $100,000 lower—again, a massive miss! Underpricing happens more than you think, and it’s costing people dearly.
So, what can you do? Here are my top tips:
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Do your own research: Look at comparable sales, but make sure they’re truly comparable, not just “something nearby.” Unique or custom homes, or homes outside traditional subdivisions, need extra care here.
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Ask for data: Request a list of comparable sales (“comps”) from your agent. Don’t hesitate to bring up sales they might not know about—and be open to hearing about off-market deals, too.
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Watch out for red flags: If an agent suggests a price that feels much too low (or too high!), ask them how they arrived at that number—and don't settle for vague answers.
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First impressions matter: Simple things like fresh mulch, driveway sealing, trimming bushes, or removing outdated carpeting (sometimes uncovering beautiful hardwood!) can dramatically boost your home’s value—with little or no budget.
At the end of the day, the market determines the value, but your preparation and your agent’s expertise make a world of difference in what you actually walk away with.
Thinking about selling, or just want to know what your Wheaton home is worth today? Reach out to me anytime! I live here, I work here, and I always have a list of qualified buyers waiting for the right property. Let's make sure you're positioned to maximize your results.
Make it a great day—and don’t leave your hard-earned equity on the table!
Talk soon, Michael LaFido