Preparing your home so it will show successfully-
some tips and advice....
- First impressions are often what remain in the potential buyer's minds.With buyers searching on the internet,they will
often drive by first and decide if they want to see a house so the outside look is more important than ever. Curb
appeal is very important. Keep your lawn trimmed, decks swept, front door clean, clutter in the garage or stored
neatly, trim painted, etc. Window boxes and planters add a lot to appeal but are not pricey.
- Attend to the details inside. Fix sliders that won't slide,leaky faucets, window locks that are broken, anything that
won't function right if a buyer tries to work it. I had a contractor go through my house before listing it to fix
everything he could find wrong and it made for an easy sale. These small things are often what buyers use as a
negative and a tool to reduce the selling price.
- Safety/liability. Leave hallways and walkways clutter free. Remove toys or objects a potential buyer could trip on.
Keep the stairs clear. Don't leave jewelry/expensive items around. Keeps pets in a separate area.Simple is best when it
comes to home sales. Remove knick-knacks and personal items that distract the buyer. Buyers want to see the full
value in your home. If they can't view the attic,basement,garage,and closets because they are so filled with your
treasures it's a turn off. Neatly labelled boxes ready for a move look better than piles of "stuff".
- Open the curtains and make sure the windows are clean. A bright sunny room is always more appealing to the
customer, not to mention easier to see.Have the lights on, making sure bulbs are working properly.
- It is said that bathrooms and kitchens sell homes. Make them sparkle! Clean sinks and toilets, stovetops,and counters.
Replace damaged or discolored caulking,remove rust stains. Consider replacing dated hardware and fixtures.Even
new doorknobs can add an inexpensive new touch. Use scent to make your home inviting. Light a candle before the
showing. Bake some cookies or bread. Make your house smell like "home". Set the scene-holiday decorations,
seasonal props (fire in fireplace,ice tea on counter, etc.), soft music playing in the background-make the buyers feel
comfortable.
- Showing etiquette: Showings work better when the seller isn't present. Buyers feel rushed and uncomfortable viewing
a house in front of it's owners. Some are intimidated by or allergic to pets, so if they can be separated as well it's a
plus. Some sellers try to "oversell" or give too much information and make the buyers suspicious. (ie The seller states
proudly that they have a termite warranty on the property that's serviced every year. While this can be an asset, all the
buyer hears is "TERMITES" )
- If you would like to sell or include any of your furnishings, it is best to make an inventory list to be handled separate
from the closing. Then it will be very clear what stays, what's for sale, and what it will cost.
- Prepare a "listing book". It may include photos of the house in other seasons, septic report, any plot plans, inspections
and warranties,etc. Buyers like "paperwork" and records. Let the buyer see that the home has been well cared for-it
inspires confidence to go forward and make an offer.
|
