With today's market, I often hear from people, "I want to sell to take advantage of the market, but my house isn't ready to show." Most times, that's not the case at all! OR, it takes much less than people think to prepare their homes to list. I've put together some of the more important things to do in order to get your home ready to sell.
1. Identify repairs and make a plan
Make sure appliances are in good working order. Fix any leaks in drains/faucets. Unclog all drains. Cabinet doors should open and close smoothly. Fix broken hinges or missing handles. Have any torn carpets or broken tiles? Replace the damaged material. Check that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in working order. Garage doors should work, etc.
2. Declutter & Clean
Steam clean carpets, particularly if you have pets. Gather up all the pet toys. Clear out the knick knacks that we all love. You want clear and neat spaces and surfaces. It's just as important to maintain the outside of your home as well. Trim back trees, shrubs and other vegetation that may have gotten out of control. Make sure decking is safe.
3. Depersonalize your home
Although we love our family photos on the wall and our kids' latest work of art on the fridge, take them down for showings. Potential buyers like to visualize themselves and their family in their new home. It's harder for them to do that when they see your family reunion photos on the wall.
4. Paint where it needs it most
Painting is one of the easier and cheaper ways to freshen up a room. Fill any nail holes and minor dings and dents in the walls. Outside too! Fences should be looking clean and ideally no chipping paint.
5.Make it feel like a home- staging!
Although hiring a professional staging company is great, not everyone has it in their budget. If you are unable to use a professional, try using furniture you already have. It likely fits the space and can look nice. Just make sure there aren't any tears or major stains. Neutral colors work best.
6. Keep it clean & consistent
Once you do these things, keep up the good work and clean as you go so that you can be ready at any time to have the home shown.
A home is an investment. Investing in some time and elbow grease up front can increase the likelihood of receiving offers quickly when you list your home.
Feel like you have all of these things handled? I'd love the opportunity to earn your business and meet with you to discuss the value of your home. 508-207-8868