Preparing To Sell
As a part of our listing service, a member of our team will meet you to walk through your home. This meeting will help us to identify key features to be highlighted in our marketing of your property. It also allows us to point out things that can be done to maximize your sales price.
Here are a few general tips to get you started:
Exterior:
A buyer’s first impression of your home can literally make or break a sale! At first glance, homes that look clean, well cared for and inviting will draw buyers in. A home that does not have such “curb appeal” can turn buyers off before they even get out of the car. To make sure your home will peak a prospective buyer’s interest, try these tips:
- Remove all debris and unnecessary items.
- Keep sidewalks and porches swept.
- Keep grass, shrubs, and trees trimmed.
- Bring in a few potted flowers or colorful plants to brighten the entryway.
- Repaint/replace the mailbox and street numbers so they look fresh and clean.
- Make sure all fencing and gates are in good repair and open/close properly.
- Clean your windows inside and out.
- Clean or paint the front door.
- New exterior paint is ideal but not always realistic. If it is not, consider power washing the home and painting just the trim.
- Keep corners and eaves swept free of cobwebs.
Interior:
There are a lot of simple things that can be done to create an atmosphere that will appeal to prospective buyers.
General items:
- De-clutter! We cannot stress this enough. We consider this the most important step in preparing your home to sell. Pack it up, give it away, or store it. Whatever works for you!
- Open shutters and shades, clean the windows, make sure lights are working and turned on. The brighter, the better.
- Make your home smell good. Stick with scents that are familiar and not overwhelming.
- Clean, clean, clean. Deep clean your home. Make sure flooring, baseboards, windowsills, ceilings and doors are fresh and clean.
- Consider repainting. If the walls have been painted recently, consider just the trim and doors to create a fresh, clean look.
- When possible, allow buyers, and their agents, to view the home without you present. It is important that buyers can picture themselves in the home. When you are in the room, that can be hard to do! Whenever possible, take a quick walk around the block or step outside to give the buyer and his or her agent some space.
- Did we mention De-clutter?
Room Specific:
Kitchen
Kitchens are at the top of many buyers’ priority lists. Make sure the kitchen is sparkling clean. Remove unnecessary appliances and items from your countertops to create open space. Clean and organize your cupboards. Remove magnets from your refrigerator. Make sure sinks are clear of any dishes and are clean. Replace burner reflectors or drip trays. Check under your sink to be sure it is clean and free of any moisture or staining.
Living Room
Arrange the furniture to create clear pathways and open space. Make sure the room is well-lit and that window coverings are open. Remove personal items from shelving and tables.
Bathrooms
Make sure that bathrooms are clean and well lit. Check sinks, counters and tubs for missing tiles or grout that need replacement. Check under sinks to be sure they are clean and free of any moisture or staining. Clear the counters of all personal items.
Bedrooms
De-clutter! Keep bedrooms clean and light. Keep personal items out of view. Organize your closets to give the appearance of space (Yes, buyers will look in them).
Preparing your home to be sold is worth the effort. Every property is unique and will have its own strengths and challenges. As stated above, a member of our team will meet you to review your specific home and to offer suggestions tailored to your goals and needs.
