Even in these uncertain times homeowners can sell at very satisfactory prices in a reasonable period of time. The secret? Pay attention to details, utilize marketing savvy and price the home to sell quickly. The following tips can help you get that "sold" sign up fast.

SELECT A SAVVY REAL ESTATE AGENT ... one who will provide you with a marketing system for your property; provide worldwide exposure by marketing your property on the Internet; provide you with a written Competitive Market Analysis to help you determine the most effective listing price; provide regular progress reports throughout the marketing period; discuss with you any comments received about your property; keep you thoroughly informed throughout the entire selling process which includes through closing.

MAKE YOUR AGENT YOUR PARTNER ... in the literal sense of the word. Use partnership to be sure that your house sells for the best price in the least amount of time with the least amount of hassle.

LIST AT THE RIGHT PRICE. This is where your Real Estate partner will be very helpful by providing you with a written CMA. Your home must be priced right to sell. Over pricing or under pricing a home will only lead to disappointment or frustration because your home isn’t selling. Start with a price that is reasonable for your neighborhood and the size of your home. Comparing the opinions of two independent appraisers will also help you avoid over or under-pricing.

PAY PART OF THE CLOSING COSTS ... usually 3 to 5 percent of the loan amount. This will attract those first-time buyers who are short on cash for down-payment and closing costs. Offering to turn over personal property such as washing machines and dryers, refrigerators and flower boxes can also attract buyers looking for the best deal.

ACCEPT CONTINGENCY AGREEMENTS. Make your sale contingent upon the sale of the buyer’s home. This takes away buyers’ fears of juggling two properties and mortgages at the same time.

MAKE YOUR HOME STAND OUT. Fresh paint and flowers can go a long way in impressing buyers. Tend to such details as moving the lawn, fixing stubborn door knobs and sliding doors, and straightening up the basement. Remember, your home’s appearance on the day it’s shown can make or break a sale.

The bottom line is that sellers should take the time to make their home as attractive as possible. Compiling helpful tips for the buyer about school districts, utility bills and directions to the nearest shopping mall can go a long way in selling your house quickly.

With a little work and an active real estate agent, chances are good that your house will sell fast in today’s buyer’s market.