Selling a property. What Strategy Should I Use to get my Top Dollar?

Question

I’m looking to sell my single-family rental property in Grandview, Missouri that I purchased in October 2023. I initially bought it as a fix-and-flip, but I went over budget and decided to rent it out instead. Now I'm considering selling it while it's still under mortgage and hoping to get top dollar for it.

What strategies would you recommend to attract serious buyers and maximize my selling price in this market? Any tips on marketing, pricing, or negotiating would be greatly appreciated!

Jeff Pasmore · Answer

Michele,

I have been selling homes for awhile - I get trying to  sell your single-family rental in Grandview, Missouri, and you mentioned you wanted to vet top dollar for it. Here’s where you need to focus: framing the sale properly and positioning it as a high-value opportunity for the right buyer. Think of it as not just selling a house, but selling potential.

First, let’s talk marketing—you need to get the right people looking at this property. Highlight the unique features of the home and its potential for value add. You don’t want to just list it as a “house for sale”; you want to position it as an opportunity for savvy buyers. Maybe it’s perfect for a family looking to move in, or maybe it’s an ideal rental property for investors. Frame it as a turnkey investment. A lot of buyers will want to see that they’re walking into an income-producing asset, not just another house.

On pricing, start with comparative market analysis to ensure you're not overpricing it, but also don’t undercut yourself. If you’ve done some repairs or upgrades, emphasize those in the listing. But here’s where the negotiation strategy comes in:

• Don’t take the first offer. You’ve got to maintain control. If you get lowball offers, don’t immediately agree to anything. Set a price you’re comfortable with, but be willing to negotiate if the buyer is serious.
• Create urgency by positioning the house as in-demand. If possible, try using a strategy like "best offer by [date]". This sets a mental deadline for the buyers and can create urgency—this pushes serious buyers to the table and weeds out tire-kickers.

When negotiating, focus on the frame you want to set—position yourself as the expert, the person in control. This could mean pointing out why your property is superior in its market, or how it’s positioned to appreciate or generate income. Confidence in the negotiations is everything. Always stay calm and keep the conversation focused on the value the buyer is getting.

Also, consider leveraging professional staging if the house is empty or just doesn’t show well. Buyers need to be able to imagine themselves in the space and well-done staging helps them do that.

Lastly, use agent networks and social media to spread the word. Listing on MLS is a must, but also use Instagram and Facebook to show off the property in a fresh, engaging way. And don’t forget the power of virtual tours this can help make it easy for out-of-town buyers to get a feel for the property without having to travel.

The bottom line is, you want to sell the dream of owning that property—not just the reality of the house. Paint a picture of what it can become, whether it’s the perfect family home or the next great investment. And make sure you’re framing yourself as the one in charge of the transaction.

I Hope this helps you ! Best Luck in selling your home !

Matthew Paul · Answer

You will only get what someone is willing to offer .

If you went over budget , there is a good chance you either over inproved the property  or you paid too much from the start .

But it is the spring season , you may get lucky

Matthew Paul · Answer

Cant hurt to give it a try .  But the minute you do , every agent will be hitting you up to list it . And they all have the same lines how they are the best agent out there .

Michelle Harrington · Answer

I love that advice. thank you @Steve K.

Steve K. · Answer

Look at some recent comparable sales in that location, see who sold them, and hire that agent. They may already have a buyer for you.

Michelle Harrington · Answer

@Jeff Pasmore I really like your advice. putting out more money on this property is not one of my option but I might consider. am also considering the other strategic way of selling this  property like rent to own. what can you say about that?

Michelle Harrington · Answer

@Matthew Yes you are right and that was my first time doing Fix & Flip. Would you recommend for me to post this property for sale as an owner? I have been thinking of this, and if I am unsuccessful and no traction at all, then I will get a realtor. what do you think?

Michelle Harrington · Answer

Yeah...Expected. Well, I appreciate you so much! Thank you!;)

Selling a property. What Strategy Should I Use to get my Top Dollar?

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