The way you prepare your home for potential buyers can influence how quickly it sells. Here are some tips I give my clients on getting ready to list a home for sale:
For your home's exterior
Enhance your home's curb appeal by spending some time cleaning up its exterior. Doing so will help increase the number of showings as well as your home’s selling price. Here are some effective methods:
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Keep your landscape looking clean and trim by mowing and watering your lawn frequently.
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Prune trees and bushes, and clean up mulch and ground cover.
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Spread grass seed to cover up bare spots in your lawn.
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Plant flowers in your yard. Hint: Yellow flowers can signify new beginnings and can evoke positive emotions when it comes to home-buying.
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Sweep sidewalks and walkways and clean up the sides of your home. If needed, rent a power washer.
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Make sure your house number is displayed and clearly visible from the street.
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Minimize clutter. Rent a storage facility to keep bikes, toys and other yard equipment.
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Repaint your home or touch up as necessary to give a kept-up appearance.
For your home's interior
By cleaning up clutter and creating additional space, you'll help buyers to envision themselves living in your home. Here are some helpful steps to take:
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Put away personal photos, artwork, trophies and other belongings. Remove items you’ll take when you move, including books and other items on counters and shelves.
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Tidy up all closets and cabinets. Discerning buyers will open closed doors, so make sure everything is organized. This will show buyers that you take care of your home from the inside out.
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Remove any unnecessary furniture that reduces the space of a room. These types of items include shelving units, extra leaves from the dining room table, etc. If needed, rent a storage unit.
To learn more about preparing your home for sale, I'd be happy to come by and consult on other practical enhancements you can make before you list your home.
