Preparing Your Home For Sale
The following are some suggestions to consider in order to help make your home more saleable and optimise the maximum value. As you go through these points please remember, these are general tips for everybody and may not necessarily apply to you specifically.
Spring clean
Tidy up, hold a garage sale and get rid of anything you don't need.
First impression
From the moment prospects arrive, they are making internal commentary on everything they see. Gardens and lawns should be well presented, rubbish should be disposed of, paths kept clean, toys and garden tools stored away.
Light
Bright houses sell well, open curtains and turn on lights before inspections.
Turn on the heat
A warm, comfortable heated home on cold days adds to the feeling of cosiness and welcome. On a hot day, make sure your home is well ventilated.
Scent
Smokers and dog owners beware! Nothing makes a buyer want to get out of a property quicker than stale air. A bowl of pot-pourri, baking a cake or making fresh coffee and open windows will all help. Remember - fresh air sells best.
Homely touches
Add to the feel of the home by placing fresh flowers on the table, a bowl of fruit or jars of biscuits in the kitchen. Buying is an emotional decision.
Pets
You love them, but maybe buyers won't. Keep them outside during open for inspections. Many buyers are afraid of animals and some are even allergic to them.
Little things
Complete all minor repairs. Sticking doors and windows, loose doorknobs, faulty plumbing or peeling paint may affect your sale.
Illusion of space
Remove unnecessary clutter and watch your house expand in size. Neat, well - ordered cupboards, robes and pantry show the space is ample.
Silence is golden
Turn off the television and any loud music, soft light classic or contemporary is appropriate.
Views
Clean windows, screens add to the view. Prune trees and shrubs if they are blocking your best views.
Take a back seat
Buyers are timid. Try not to be around during inspections, but if you are, try to be as inconspicuous as possible. Never apologise for the condition or appearance of your home. Don't discuss any details of the transaction such as price or terms, with prospective buyers, leave this to the Sales Associate. Their experience enables them to better qualify purchasers and negotiate the best deal for you.