Ask anyone who's tried to sell their home lately, and they'll tell you how tough it is. The days of putting your home on the market in the morning and having three offers by afternoon won't return for several years, so sellers must amplify their efforts to get their homes sold at a good price.

We asked several of Dave's real estate Endorsed Local Providers (ELPs) for their top home-selling tips. They start with tried-and-true advice, then take it up a notch.

Pricing

Pricing has always been one of the trickiest parts of selling a home. But in today's market, if you don't price your home correctly, buyers won't even take a second look.

"If you price too high, then you chase the market down and will always be at a disadvantage," ELP Marni Jimenez said. Instead of only looking at what homes in your neighborhood are listing for, ask your real estate agent to show you what similar homes have sold for in the past six months, including any foreclosures or short sales in move-in condition. You'll get a better idea of what your home will sell for.

On A Personal Note

"When people look at a house, they always ask why the owners are moving," ELP Barbie Lux said. "It's best if the homeowners themselves address that question in a short letter."

Homeowners should also highlight their home's positives, like a newly upgraded kitchen, as well as any potential negatives, like an empty lot across the street that's actually going to be made into a park.

"Sellers want me to tell the potential buyers this or that about their home or neighborhood, but I can't always be there to tell them," Barbie said. "The sellers can just write all that in their letter and leave it on the kitchen counter for the prospects to take with them."

A Breath Of Fresh Air

We all know the advice about making your home attractive to potential buyers: spiff up the lawn, clean out closets, declutter and keep things spick and span for showings.

ELP Kirk Budd adds one more suggestion. "In the summer, it's imperative to set your air conditioner a little lower than normal so new buyers are hit with cold, refreshing air as they walk in your home," he said. "They will stay longer!"

Work With A Real Estate Pro

Dave's real estate ELPs are professionals who know how to get your home sold in a tough market. If you're ready to sell your home, save yourself both time and money and contact your ELP today!