Brokers Tell All: 10 Ways to Boost House Value

Even with all the bad news about a soft sellers' market and declining home values, Illinois Realtor John Veneris says realistic homeowners don't need to get rattled, especially if they have the help of a trusted professional. "The realtor will keep them informed of changes in the marketplace. So they really need a team approach with the realtor...(M)y gut feeling is that sellers are realistic today, and they know it may just a take a little longer than hoped to find the right buyer for their home. They just have to be patient."

Veneris says patience may be rewarded sooner that you might think. Sure, he says, housing sales around him were down 21.2% in the 3rd quarter of 2008. But he says he's already starting to hear reports about an uptick in pending closings, and at his own office, more buyers are coming into the market. "We know the market is better than what you read in the paper. We think we might've seen the bottom of the market this year. I've been through three of these recessions...(I)f my hunch is right, next year will be better."

Get It Done
• Stage Your House to Sell It
• Learn About FHA Loans for Potential Buyers
• Sweeten the Deal with a Home Warranty