Please critique my advertising, all suggestions welcome
My husband and I put a lot or time and money into renovating a family owned property over the past year, intending to use it as a rental in the future. Meanwhile the home owner passed away in June and since then we learned that refinancing the property will not be possible now that I am the owner (self-employed). We had a tenant in the property for 4 months covering expenses, but now need to make decisions about marketing for sale.
I have tested FSBO ads on craigslist and Zillow so far. We have good photos, but don't live in the area so won't be able to do showings without involving a realtor or paid property manager. Currently looking into auction sale vs listing with a realtor. We can't afford to let it sit on the market long-term, but of course also not wanting to lose our renovation investment. Any suggestions from experienced sellers/buyers?
This is a popular lower budget vacation home area in the mountains, about 2 hours drive from the Bay Area. I am including partial ad text here for critique:
$245,000 Home with Scenic Mountain View
2 Bed, 1 Bath house plus large bonus room with separate entrance (County records show 1 bedroom). 890 sq ft with 288 sq ft deck. Great location with the best mountain views in the neighborhood. Move-in ready for full time living, vacation home, or turn-key rental.
Vermont Castings airtight woodstove with vintage ceramic art tile hearth
Electric baseboard heaters
Propane tank on site; house plumbed for propane
Bonus Room 168 sq ft, separate entrance and heating, plumbed for hot and cold water. Suitable for office or additional bedroom.
2025-2026 improvements:
New roof and new gutters with screen covers
New vinyl plank flooring
New light fixtures and electrical upgrades
New kitchen stove and hood
New washing machine
New window blinds/curtains
New metal baluster railings installed around the deck and off-street parking area
10 cubic yards fresh gravel spread on walkways and parking area
Deck stained and sealed
the 2-bedroom septic system was recently pumped and inspected, new risers and lids added
New metal storage shed and all home maintenance tools, supplies, matching materials (paint, tiles, trim, flooring etc.) included with the sale of the property.
















