Tips For Selling Your Home

Put yourself in the buyers shoes all the way from the minute they drive up to closing time, be willing to be flexible because purchasing a home is a very big decision. If you understand what a buyer sees and feels it will make completing the transaction much easier for all parties involved. 

Below is a list of some of the highpoints that buyers notice. When doing these repairs remember to keep it inexpensive, you are not trying to remodel your house for yourself but you are trying to freshen it up for someone else. If you spend too much money you will decrease your available down payment for your next house and may have to raise your asking price to justify the repairs.

Keep the lawn, shrubs, trees and landscape well manicured. Touch up any exterior paint, clean the gutters and remove any unsightly debris from the yard. These are easily noticed items that reflect on the overall upkeep of the property.  

Consider adding a fresh coat of paint to any rooms that have "dated" colors or are in need of updating. Use neutral colors whenever possible. Neutral colors appeal to a wider range of buyers and also make it easier for the buyer to envision their furniture and decor easier with neutral colors. What may appeal to your tastes might not appeal to a prospective buyer.

Have the carpets and floors professionally cleaned.  Complete any unfinished maintenance items; doors that don't shut correctly, broken windows, burned out lights, missing trim, etc.  Dust shelves and any other areas that may be dirty. Buyers are excited by homes that are neat and clean.

Remove excess furniture or items that are taking up extra space.  Remove clutter from drawers and closets.  Buyers tend toward purchasing a home that has a feeling of roominess.

Buyers tend to focus much of their attention on the kitchen and bath areas.  Be sure to pay close attention to detail when cleaning these areas. New caulking in the bathtub and shower may  be worthwhile. Repair any leaking faucets or damaged plumbing fixtures.

Let as much light into the home as possible by opening blinds and turning lights on. Make sure if you have a showing at night that all entrance and porch lights are also turned on.

Keep a list of recent improvements on hand for buyers to see.  This will provide a good understanding of how well maintained the property has been.

If you're house is listed by a real estate agent, let the agent do the showings.  Buyers will feel more comfortable if the owner and any pets are not present. Be sure to rid the house of odors such as, cooking, pet, musty basement or cigarette smoke.

Ask buyers to be preapproved with their lender prior to negotiating price, etc. This will better ensure that the process goes smoothly.

If we can be of any assistance in the home buying or selling process, please feel free to Contact us.  Good Luck with the sale of your property!