All sellers want to get the most from their sale. In a fast-paced market like we have today, it is easy to think any home, in any condition will sell for top dollar. The reality is that nearly all homes need some preparation to get the most the market will give. The trick is to pick the right enhancements that actually pay for the trouble of getting them done.
Here are a few easy tips that we routinely see return the biggest bang for the seller’s buck.
Outside
Curb appeal – Sprucing up the front of your home is your first, and sometimes only chance to wow a prospective buyer. This time of year, clearing debris, tiding up flower beds, and putting a fresh coat of paint on your front door will make a great impression.
Exterior – Take the time to start to clean the interior and exterior of your gutters, wash windows and touch up exterior paint. These small maintenance items are sure to make your home sparkle. Replace worn light fixtures and hardware, even completely replacing the front door, is a small investment that generally brings a nice return. Left undone, buyers start to form an entirely different impression, and one that might not even be true.
Interior maintenance
Once inside the home, a number of small things can be done to ensure a buyer is drawn to positive aspects, and not given any reason to dwell on what might otherwise be negative.
Paint – Painting the walls in your home with a neutral color is an inexpensive way to freshen up the interior. Choosing a neutral color (beige or grey) is your best bet. There is a reason home builders use this color palate – it has the broadest appeal.
Updates – Replacing old light fixtures and faucets are relatively inexpensive and easy DIY projects. Adding a tile backsplash in your kitchen and bathrooms is another easy update that pays. Also, replacing old knobs and pulls in kitchens and baths makes a big difference with very little investment. While those knobs are off, check the condition of the cabinets. Dated looking cabinets can be refreshed with a coat of paint or new stain. This job is usually best left to the pros, but the cost generally pays off. Finally, countertops can make a big difference. They have a huge impact on the buyers.
Flooring Replacement – Worn out carpets, vinyl or hardwoods generally leaves buyers questioning value. Replacing the flooring, or reconditioning it, generally is a cost that gives a nice return when it comes time to sell.
Staging – After enhancing the home, it is important to now ensure it looks as good as the effort you put into it. Staging is an important final step to ensure your investment really pays off. Minimize as much as you can. Sellers too often forget they are moving, so why not start packing or even take the time now to have that great garage sale. Start removing most personal objects. While these are the things we love to live with, they could present as clutter to buyers. Ensure your buyer focuses on what they are buying – the space – and not the ‘things’ they aren’t.
There are many other tips that help sellers achieve the great results. The best one is to work with a full-time Realtor early in the planning process. Be sure to contact one of our real estate professionals to collaborate together on a stress-free plan! Every house requires a different plan. We are here to help tailor just the right solution for you to achieve your best outcome.
