Getting a home sold takes more planning and savvy today than in the past. It is more important than ever to find ways to make your home stand out and get the attention of serious buyers. You may think a few worn out or broken things shouldn’t make a difference, but everything matters to a buyer. Anything that causes a buyer to think there may be MORE things that need repair, updating or remodeling takes them one step further from making an offer on your home.
So here are the 4 Most Important Tips to prepare your home for sale.
1) Put the shine on. Be sure all the carpeting is clean and fresh smelling, the tile and grout repaired or replaced if chipped, and replaced if outdated. If you have hardwood floors, you might refinish surfaces to restore the luster. Fixtures from lamps to faucets need to be in working order. Replace light bulbs with the highest wattage the fixture allows. If possible, install rheostats to set the right moods in some rooms.
2) Fresh Paint It is amazing what fresh paint can do for your home. Stick with neutral warm colors. Be sure to clean up paint spills and drips. You may not want to do all rooms in the house, so pick the ones that the buyer sees 1st, and those that it will make the most dramatic change.
3) Doors and Windows The condition and quality of your doors and windows is important to potential buyers for two primary reasons: security and energy-efficiency. So it’s essential to ensure your doors and windows are working properly and are in good condition. Worn out screens and hardware should be replaced. Remember 1st impressions, and the front door is one of them.
4) Front Yard and Driveway Re-do old landscaping. Pull out aged shrubs and dead head plants. Fresh topping on garden areas, a new coat of paint or stain on the fencing, and a new mailbox with the house numbers on it. Easy access to the entrance. Possibly flowers or herbs in pots by the front door.
Depending on your budget and energy these things can be done at various levels. But the important thing to remember is that it all makes a difference. You may be fine living with it like it is, but a buyer may not want to, and it may make a difference between an offer and a lost sale for you.
Don’t hesitate to contact me if you would like additional suggestions or a review of your home for a specific list of ideas.
