Answers by Barbara Jennings

Coming soon works very well for sellers to be able to create an online presence and get buyers and agents asking questions . It’s not that agents want to find a buyer for your house that rarely happens but what does happen is other agents get to share with their buyers information about your home. Wish you the best !

You don’t need your home to be spotless for an appraisal, but it should look cared for and well-maintained. Appraisers are focused on the home’s condition, updates, layout, and features — not whether it’s been freshly deep cleaned. That said, a clean and clutter-free home helps create a positive impression and allows the appraiser to see the property clearly. I recommend tidying up main living areas, making sure all systems and lights are working, and taking care of any small maintenance items. With kids or a busy household, perfection isn’t required — just aim for “neat and lived-in.” A well-maintained home always tells the right story. — Barbara Jennings, REALTOR® Epique Realty | Fredericksburg, VA Trusted Local Expert & Real Estate Advisor

It’s completely normal to have questions about pricing—especially when it feels lower than expected. Pricing a home isn’t just about looking at what sold nearby or what online estimates show. The market is constantly shifting, and those “past sold” prices often reflect conditions that may have changed since those homes closed. Websites like Zillow and Realtor.com use automated algorithms based mostly on square footage and general data—they haven’t seen inside your home, considered your upgrades, lot position, layout, or current buyer demand. That’s why professional pricing also factors in competition, condition, absorption rate, and current buyer trends in your specific neighborhood. If you disagree with your agent’s suggested price, ask them to show you the data behind their recommendation and how they’re interpreting today’s market activity—not just what sold months ago. A collaborative pricing discussion should balance data with your goals and timeline, not feel one-sided. — Barbara Jennings, REALTOR® Epique Realty | Fredericksburg, VA Trusted Local Expert & Real Estate Advisor