MAY AHN

SELLING YOUR HOME THE RIGHT WAY

How to Maximize Your Profit When Selling an Investment Property

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May Ahn Homes

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If you’ve owned your investment property for a few years—or even decades—now might be the perfect time to sell and maximize your return.

Whether you’re ready to retire, downsize, or shift your portfolio, selling an income property in Pasadena, San Marino, South Pasadena, Arcadia, or San Gabriel takes more than just listing it on the MLS.

It takes a smart, strategic approach.

Here are a few key steps to help you get the most out of your sale:

1. Know Your Timing

Timing can make a big difference. If you’re planning to sell within the next 3 to 6 months, it’s not too early to start preparing now.

The spring and summer months are often strong for Pasadena-area real estate—but it’s not just about seasonality.

Understanding local market trends and buyer behavior can help you decide when to list.

👉 Let’s talk about what the market looks like in your specific neighborhood.

2. Prep the Property to Attract Serious Buyers

A well-maintained and thoughtfully presented home always sells better.

Here are a few things that can go a long way:

  • Fresh coat of neutral paint
  • Curb appeal touch-ups (simple landscaping, clean walkway, updated lighting)
  • Minor repairs (door handles, faucets, loose tiles)
  • Deep cleaning of the interior and exterior

👉 If it’s a tenant-occupied property, we’ll work with your tenants and make the process smooth while respecting everyone’s time.

3. Understand the Tax Implications

Selling an investment property comes with potential capital gains taxes—but there may be ways to reduce or defer that liability.

A few strategies to look into:

  • 1031 Exchange if you’re reinvesting
  • Reviewing your cost basis and depreciation
  • Consulting with a CPA or tax advisor

👉 I have trusted local professionals I can connect you with to make sure you’re protected and informed every step of the way.

4. Price It Strategically

Pricing isn’t just about what you want—it’s about what the market will support and what gets you the best result.

Overpricing can lead to sitting on the market. Underpricing can leave money on the table.

I’ll run a detailed comparative market analysis (CMA) so we price it just right, attract qualified buyers, and create momentum from day one.

5. Market It to the Right Buyers

Investment properties don’t just appeal to the typical buyer. We’ll position your property for:

  • Other investors looking for cash flow
  • Homeowners open to house-hacking (live in one unit, rent the other)
  • Buyers looking to upsize into multi-family or income-producing homes

👉 With professional photos, custom video tours, and digital ads targeting high-intent buyers, your property will get seen by the right people.

6. Work with an Agent Who Knows Investment Sales

This isn’t your average sale. You need someone who:

  • Understands the Pasadena-area market and income property valuations
  • Knows how to navigate trust sales, tenant-occupied listings, and 1031 exchanges
  • Has experience negotiating in your favor

👉 You don’t need to do this alone—and you shouldn’t leave money on the table.

Thinking about selling an investment property in Pasadena or surrounding areas?

Let’s schedule a quick call. I’ll walk you through what your property could sell for, what steps we’ll take together, and how to make the process seamless.

📞 Call or text me at 626-329-6999
💻 Or email me at may.ahn@sothebys.realty

Let’s maximize your profit and move forward with confidence.

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