Selling Your Home in Bakersfield: Tips from a Local Expert

Selling a home can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance, you can ensure a smooth process and maximize your return. As a real estate team that has helped over 11,000 locals with buying and selling in Kern County, The McCarty Group understands the unique challenges and opportunities in the Bakersfield market. Here are key tips to help you successfully sell your home in Bakersfield.

1. Hire a Local Agent

Choosing a local agent is crucial. Agents from outside the area may not be familiar with the nuances of Bakersfield, from neighborhood dynamics to pricing strategies that work specifically in our market. More importantly, out-of-area agents may not be available when you need them most—whether it’s for open houses, inspections, appraisals, or buyer showings. Plus, if they aren't members of our local MLS, your home won’t be properly marketed to local agents and their clients, meaning less exposure and potentially fewer offers. A local agent ensures your property gets the attention it needs, helping you secure top dollar.

2. Do Your Homework When Hiring an Agent

It's tempting to choose a friend or an agent who offers a lower commission, but this can often cost you more in the long run. A qualified, local agent with a proven track record will know how to position your home for the best results. Before making your decision, read online reviews, look up agent statistics, and interview multiple agents to find the right fit. At The McCarty Group, we take pride in our results. With hundreds of Google reviews from real clients and a reputation built on trust, we’re committed to delivering the best possible experience. We've helped thousands of families buy and sell homes in Kern County, and our knowledge of the market speaks for itself.

3. Make Your Home Shine

When listing your home, first impressions are everything. Buyers are more likely to put in offers on homes that look their best both in photos and in person. Declutter, deep clean, and stage your home to highlight its best features. If necessary, make small upgrades or repairs—these can significantly improve your home's appeal. At The McCarty Group, we work with a network of professional organizers, cleaners, and stagers to help our clients make their homes stand out. We understand what Bakersfield buyers are looking for, and we'll make sure your home catches their attention.

4. Price Your Home Strategically

You’ve hired an expert for a reason—to get you the best possible price. Pricing your home correctly is key to attracting buyers and avoiding unnecessary delays. Your agent should provide a comparative market analysis (CMA), taking into account recent sales, current listings, and the state of the local market. While it may be tempting to price your home higher to leave room for negotiation, this strategy often backfires. Overpricing can lead to fewer showings, multiple price reductions, and ultimately, a lower final sale price. Trust your agent's expertise and aim for a competitive price from the start to generate strong interest and multiple offers.

5. Market Your Home Like a Pro

In today’s digital age, online exposure is crucial. A local agent will know how to market your home effectively on platforms like Zillow, Realtor.com, and social media, while also utilizing professional photography and video tours to highlight your home’s best features. At The McCarty Group, we take marketing to the next level—investing thousands of dollars in marketing for each property we list. In fact, we spend more in one month on marketing costs than most agents spend in an entire year! This commitment to broad, high-quality exposure is essential for driving offers and creating competition, ensuring that you get the best possible sale price for your home.

6. Prepare for Negotiations

Selling a home often involves negotiations, whether it’s about price, repairs, or closing dates. Having a seasoned agent on your side can make all the difference. They’ll handle negotiations professionally, ensuring that your interests are protected and that you get the best possible outcome. With The McCarty Group by your side, you can rest assured that we’ll guide you through every step, providing clear advice and handling negotiations on your behalf.

7. Be Ready for the Home Inspection

Once you’ve accepted an offer, the buyer will most likely schedule a home inspection. It’s essential to prepare your home for this process. Address any obvious repairs in advance to avoid surprises that could lead to renegotiation. Having your home in excellent condition can make a positive impression on the buyer and help ensure the deal goes smoothly. At The McCarty Group, we offer guidance on preparing for inspections and can even recommend trusted local contractors if repairs are needed.

8. Be Flexible with Showings

The more available your home is for showings, the more likely you are to attract serious buyers. Work with your agent to establish a flexible showing schedule that accommodates both your needs and potential buyers' schedules. Keep your home in "show-ready" condition as much as possible, so it’s always ready for last-minute showings. The McCarty Group team is highly responsive and works to ensure that every showing opportunity is maximized, increasing your chances of securing a great offer.

Ready to Sell Your Home in Bakersfield?

Selling a home doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation and an experienced local agent, you can successfully navigate the process and achieve top dollar for your property. At The McCarty Group, we’re here to help every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in selling your Bakersfield home.