Selling your home isn’t just about putting up a “for sale” sign and waiting for the right offer to materialize, especially in today’s market. With buyers more cautious due to rising interest rates and economic uncertainty, you might be wondering: How can I make my home stand out and still get top dollar?
Here’s some good news: There are powerful strategies that go beyond pricing. From helping buyers lower their monthly payments to programs offering rate stability, you can give your home a serious edge.
Let’s walk through some of the smartest, most effective tactics sellers are using right now to close deals faster and easier without leaving money on the table.
1. PROGRAMS THAT PROVIDE RATE STABILITY
WHAT THEY ARE:
Programs like CMG Home Loans’ List & Lock program allow home sellers to pre-lock a mortgage interest rate for potential buyers — even before the home goes under contract. The rate lock is tied to the listing itself, not the individual buyer.
WHY THEY WORK:
- They remove rate uncertainty for buyers who are worried about interest rates rising before they can secure financing.
- They create a sense of urgency, since the locked rate is only valid for a limited time and tied to your property.
- They help listings stand out by marketing a below-market or stable interest rate as part of the offer.
HOW THEY HELP SELLERS:
- They position the home as a more affordable option in buyer searches.
- They reduce the need for larger price cuts or other concessions.
- Sellers can advertise the locked rate directly in their marketing materials.
2. MORTGAGE RATE BUY-DOWNS
WHAT THEY ARE:
A buy-down is when the seller pays upfront points to reduce the buyer’s mortgage interest rate for a set period (temporary buy-down) or permanently.
WHY THEY WORK:
- They make monthly payments more affordable for buyers.
- They can be more attractive than a price reduction, especially in a high-interest environment.
- They help your listing stand out when buyers compare monthly payments.
Example: A 2-1 buy-down allows the buyer to pay 2% less interest in the first year and 1% less in the second year, often making it easier for first-time buyers to commit.
3. BUYER CREDITS AT CLOSING
WHAT THEY ARE:
The seller contributes a fixed amount toward buyer’s closing costs.
WHY THEY WORK:
- They reduce the amount of upfront cash required from the buyer.
- They’re popular with FHA, VA and first-time buyers who may be cash strapped.
Tip: Make the offer clear in your listing (e.g., “$5,000 buyer credit at closing”).
4. PRE-INSPECTIONS & REPAIRS
WHAT IT IS:
Getting a professional inspection before listing and fixing key issues in advance.
WHY IT WORKS:
- It increases buyer confidence.
- It speeds up the due-diligence process.
- It can justify a higher asking price.