But when the opposite happens, as is happening now, there is little credit to go around, so qualified buyers can be very choosy and force sellers to lower their prices. That's why we are considered to be in a buyer's market now.



This doesn't mean that you cannot sell in a buyer's market, but it means that it is harder to sell. If a buyer is a good credit risk and can obtain a mortgage, he has a great inventory of homes to choose from, and yours can be one of them.

The first thing to examine if you are a home owner is the reason you want to sell. Unless there are extenuating circumstances that force you to sell, you may be better off just waiting. If you are a seller who just wants to reap the value of your home that you have owned for a number or years, this may not be the opportune time to do so. If you don't have to sell immediately, waiting for a better market may be the best decision.

If, however, you are in a situation where you don't have a great deal of choice because your job is moving you, or because your age or health means the house is too much upkeep, or because your mortgage payments have become too expensive because of rising adjustable rates, there are some steps you can take to make your home more marketable.

The first thing is to make sure your home looks its best. It is surprising how a little cosmetic damage can turn a buyer sour on a house that is sound, well located and a clear bargain, but many people can't see past the surface and will be turned off by a house that is dirty or in need of repair. Put your home in top cosmetic shape.

Be sure the outside of the home is going to welcome potential buyers instead of being a turn off. Adding (or taking away) a few bushes, installing walkway lights or a few hanging plants on the porch may be an easy way to add appeal. Keep it neat and cheery so the buyers won't be tempted to drive by.

All tastes are not the same. If your tastes run to ornate Mediterranean d'cor, you should not assume that most buyer's tastes also will. Keep the look neutral so that anyone can picture their own furniture and decorating style in the house. If you are not sure how to achieve this, a stager may help. They can spot issues you may not even notice and help you make the home more appealing to more people.

Be ready to show your home at a moment's notice. Buyers have an incredible number of houses to view in any given area-if you are not around, they will go on to the next one. Either work it out with family schedules, or allow your realtor to bring buyers at anytime with a lock box arrangement.

A last ditch solution may be to hold a mortgage. This can be complicated and involves some risk, but you will open your market considerably, and if there is a problem down the line, you will end up owning your own home.