As with any real estate transaction, there are a number of things you should be aware of when selling your home. We have provided a basic checklist of things to consider during what could be one of the most important decisions of your life.
If you need any advice, or would like one of our highly qualified agents to help get your home sold for the best possible price, give us a call today!
- De-Clutter. A clean, organized appearance does a lot for a home’s appeal! If you haven’t used it in a year, why not donate it or throw it away? Pack up knickknacks and other non-essential items. Make sure kitchen and bathrooms counters are clear and clean.
- Organize Bedroom Closets and Kitchen Cabinets. Buyers will be opening these doors. If everything looks organized and well-cared for, it says that you probably take good care of the rest of your house as well. Turn coffee cup handles the same way, stack storage containers and dishes neatly, hang shirts and other clothes neatly and facing the same direction. Line up your shoes, and keep the closet floors clear.
- Consider Renting a Storage Unit. Almost every home shows better with less in it. Leave just enough furniture in each room to showcase and display its intended use. Buyers need to be able to imagine how a room can be used.
Remove/Replace Favorite Items. If you have window treatments, light fixtures, or other attached/installed items that you want to keep, remove them and get a replacement that may be less expensive, but that still enhances the home.- Make Minor Repairs. Replace cracked tiles, patch holes in walls, fix leaky faucets, fix doors that jam or drawers that don’t close properly, replace burned out light-bulbs.
- Make the House Sparkle. Wash windows inside and out, spray down sidewalks and exterior, clean out cobwebs, re-caulk dingy tubs and sinks, polish chrome faucets and mirrors, clean out the fridge, wax floors, dust furniture, ceiling fans, and light fixtures, bleach tile grout, replace worn rugs, hang clean towels, and air it out! Odors are a definite no-no, as are too-heavy air fresheners and room sprays. You should smell no significant odor upon walking into your home.
- Enhance Curb Appeal. This can be one of the most important moments-when a buyer pulls up outside the house for the first time. Make it count! Mow the lawn, paint faded trim, keep sidewalks clean, plant flowers or group flower pots close together, trim bushes, and make sure guests can clearly read your house number.
- Finally, Scrutinize. Walk into each room, and stand in the front yard. Is it welcoming? Do you want to go inside? If so, you’ve done it!
By following these simple steps when selling your home, you can make the experience go as smoothly and stress-free as possible.