This time of year many homeowners start making plans for planning to move. Whether it is upsizing, downsizing or a move across the country, you want to make sure you have a well-thought out plan to prepare your home for the market. It’s likely the largest asset you own and you owe it to yourself to maximize your profits. In the end, buyers will see this and know how well your home (and their future home) has been cared for over the years. Below are 5 things you can do to bring those buyers in once your home goes on the market! The end goal here is for you to create a high level of interest in your home…resulting in the offer you want, at the price you want, and at the terms you want!
#1 CURB APPEAL
This is the 1st impression buyers will have as they pull up to your home or drive by. Make sure the weeds are pulled. If needed, put a fresh coat of paint on the door & maybe some fresh mulch. The lawn should be freshly cut just before photos. Any loose or busted screens on your windows should be fixed. Consider pressure washing your home and driveway, this can also go a long way.
#2 DECLUTTER & DEPERSONALIZE
Take a look at photos of model homes…aim for this! Try to pre-pack as much as possible and bonus points for putting it in storage! It’s also a perk if you can lessen the load inside your closets. If buyers see full closets, it could leave them with the impression there isn’t enough space in the house. Remove family photos, anything political or controversial and lock away valuables. Your goal is for the buyer to envision their belongings in your home. Buyers usually linger longer in staged and decluttered homes. You want them to see themselves living there!
#3 REPAINT OR TOUCH UP THE WALLS
Bright walls can be a huge turnoff to buyers and dark colors can make rooms feel smaller than they are. Lighter, neutral colors are always a safe choice and help them envision themselves living there and the space to feel more open. Lastly, touch up any scuff marks so it leaves the buyer with the impression the home is well-cared for. It’s the little things!!
#4 FIX MINOR REPAIRS
The last thing you want is a buyer walking in and immediately seeing their to-do list piling up. They start to think of how much it will cost and can leave them wondering what else there could be awaiting at the home inspection. This up-front work can lead to more interest and potentially more offers.
#5 ELIMINATE ODORS
Odors, even faint ones, can be a deal breaker for many buyers. I always recommend inviting an unbiased third party into your home to try and detect any pet smells or lingering odors from your kitchen. Trust me, this is time well spent!
These are my top 5 suggestions for getting started and on your way to creating interest in your home. Think of this as your homework prior to meeting with your agent! If you can get these things done, you will have a lot less homework before getting your home on the market. And your agent will be so impressed!
If you are curious about what you can do to increase your home’s value give me a call! I’m happy to strategize a plan with you and get your home market-ready! 619.227.0801