Buyers feel confident about purchasing a well-cared for house. Cross these items off the “get-ready to sell list” a little at a time – your efforts will pay off!
Crank up the curb appeal
- Trim overgrown shrubs, especially if they block windows or the path to your front door. Flowers in containers are always nice to give a splash of color. Clean with color!
- Use “home wash” (a hose attachment that is available at any home improvement store) to clean the outside of the house.
- Clean rain gutters as well as outside windows and screens.
- Make sure the front door is inviting. Paint it if needed. Also, replace any outdated outdoor lighting fixtures.
- Buy new house numbers if the old ones are dated or faded. Be sure buyers can see the new ones from the curb.
- Buy a new welcome mat.
Make repairs
- Fix things like leaky faucets and sticky cabinets, and replace old screens. They may seem insignificant, but minor repairs add up in the mind of a potential buyer. They tend to overestimate how much repairs cost.
Pack up
- The less clutter and knick-knacks you have lying around, the more potential buyers will be able to see your home and what it offers. Remember, you are selling your house, not your stuff. Plus, getting a head start on packing will eliminate some stress down the road.
- Eliminate half of your belongings — clutter can cost in a sale. This includes personal photos, collections, and even toys. Store boxes in garage but keep access to utility closets and attic stairs. Rent a storage unit, portable pod or ask a friend if you can borrow some space in their garage.
Organize
- When your house is meticulously organized, buyers will envision themselves living a stress-free life in your home.
- Organize all closets and drawers. Buyers might look there. This is a good time to donate items to charity.
Rearrange
- Make sure your furniture placement allows for easy traffic flow, shows the purpose of each room and makes the room appear as large as possible. If you have too much furniture, rent a portable storage device to hold things until you are ready to move into your new place. If you don’t have enough furniture, borrow or rent. Vacant homes are harder to sell.
Paint
- It’s important to make your house generic. A fresh coat of neutral paint will make your home appear larger, brighter and more appealing to more potential buyers.
Clean
- Clean every inch of your house, and don’t forget to make your windows, floors, and baseboards sparkle. Make every surface shine, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. Re- caulk to make things look new. If your carpet appears old and stained, think about replacing it. Clean homes sell!
- Also, make sure there are no offensive odors. Buy air neutralizer spray, scented wax, or plug ins (please, no candles).
Getting ready for showings…
- Turn on the lights. Open all blinds or curtains, and make sure the house is well lit.
- If it’s freezing outside, leave the heat on, and if it’s summer, turn on the air conditioner. Setting an appropriate temperature is comforting to people.
- Arrange to be gone during showings and unlock exterior storm doors.
- Keep it immaculate. It may be a little inconvenient, but until you accept an offer, keep your home in tiptop shape at all times.
- Keep counter tops cleared
- Keep sinks clear and clean
- Take pets with you or crate
- Keep utility area clear of laundry
- Put all toys awayMake up all beds
- Put toilet seats down
- After dark turn on exterior lighting
- On rainy days, place a rug or mat at the front door
- Have treats on the counter
- Music on low volume