Distinctly Montana Magazine

W W W. D I S T I N C T LY M O N TA N A . C O M 93 their buyer's needs regardless of incentives. Buyers care much more about price than incentives. WHAT IS THE BEST TIME OF THE YEAR TO LIST A PROPERTY FOR SALE? UNCOMMON GROUND: at varies. Anytime is a good time provided it is show-ready and you can get good photos. We sometimes see people shopping in the comfort of their homes during winter to prepare for a spring or summer purchase. JACKIE WICKENS: In Montana, spring is a great time since the weather is beautiful and the mountains green-up. ere are circum- stances where people buy homes in the winter months as well. List- ing your house in winter can mean less competition for your listing. MARTHA JOHNSON: I live and work in Big Sky, which is a ski and summer resort town. We have two selling seasons — winter and summer. I enjoy beginning the listing process in spring and fall so that we can get you into print in publications like Distinctly Mon- tana during the height of the selling season. DOES THE CHOICE OF A REALTOR REALLY MATTER; AND WHAT CAN A SELLER DO TO INSURE THAT THEY MAKE A GOOD CHOICE OF REALTOR? JACKIE WICKENS: Of course it matters. Just like any relation- ship, there are certain personalities that don't mesh. Choose someone you get along with and enjoy. Get references to ensure your realtor has a reputation you feel confident about. UNCOMMON GROUND: Have agents submit proposals. Research and form relationships with realtors. Submitting proposals allows the agent to communicate their marketing strategies, and gives the cli- ent more information about the sales process and expectations. DAWN MADDUX: It absolutely matters! Your realtor is represent- ing one of your largest investments. Buying and selling real estate is a big job, and sellers should look for a broker who's experienced and highly recommended. Call references, Google, and do your homework. TELL US THE THREE TOP THINGS YOU WISH EVERY SELLER WOULD DO WHEN LISTING A HOME. DAWN MADDUX: Price to sell. Price to sell. Price to sell. Listen to your broker and closely review "comps" so that you clearly understand the market. MARTHA JOHNSON: Price to the market. Freshen up your home inside and out. Help craft a "selling story." It helps the next owner imagine owning the property. TRECIE WHEAT-HUGHES: Deep-clean the property, de-clutter and stage. Listen to your agent about price. Painting is the very best way to spruce up a property, and the new paint smell always makes the house seem well-maintained. CASSIE PARR, TANA BIGNELL AND MARTA BERTOGLIO Keller Williams Helena www.uncommongroundmt.com DAWN MADDUX Glacier Sotheby's Missoula www.sothebysrealty.com/ eng/associate/180-a-3720-4031201/ dawn-maddux MARTHA JOHNSON Montana Living Big Sky www.bigskyrealestate.com 4 5 6

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