Thursday, October 1, 2026
For many homeowners, the decision to sell begins long before a property officially reaches the market. According to Leon Sanchez, Jr. of Newman Realty in Malverne, thoughtful preparation can help sellers maximize value, avoid surprises and position their homes for a smoother transaction.
“The best thing I think you could ever do is have a pre-sale inspection,” Sanchez said.
A pre-sale inspection allows homeowners to identify potential issues before a buyer’s inspector does. Common concerns can range from electrical and plumbing issues to aging mechanical systems and deferred maintenance.
“You don’t want to get a great offer, have the deal on the table, and then hear, ‘We want a big discount because this came up,’” Sanchez said. “If you can get out ahead of it, it’s a good thing.”
Equally important is understanding where a home fits in today’s market. Sanchez recommends that sellers begin with a professional comparative market analysis, or CMA.
“The first step is to get a realtor in and have a thorough market analysis done,” he said. “That will help you see where your home fits in the market in terms of pricing.”
While stories of bidding wars continue to make headlines, Sanchez cautions sellers against overpricing.
“It’s the most important thing with this current market — to price it correctly,” he said. “If you price it too high, it’s going to sit.”
Not every seller needs to undertake a major renovation before listing. While fresh paint, landscaping improvements and general maintenance can enhance a home’s appeal, many buyers are willing to purchase properties that need updating.
“There’s a market for everything,” Sanchez said. “A lot of people can’t afford to fully upgrade and renovate before selling.”
Long Island’s housing market remains highly competitive. As a result, Sanchez said preparation, pricing and professional guidance have become more important than ever.
For homeowners considering a move, he believes the formula remains simple: understand your home’s condition, know its value and address potential concerns before buyers walk through the door.
Herald Content Studio articles are produced by the Herald’s marketing division and independent of the newsroom. The Herald may be compensated by featured companies or purchases made through these articles, which does not constitute the Herald’s endorsement.
