Prepare to Sell
What is realistic....today?
In a “buyer’s market” we have more inventory, some sellers lowering prices, some short sales, and foreclosures and properties are staying on the market longer.
So to become competitive in this market's large inventory, a unit needs to be at its best.
New paint (keep it neutral or select from this year’s newest color palette)
Pressure wash exterior
Replace “dated” light or plumbing fixtures. Change cabinet pulls / knobs.
New carpet or install natural stone or wood flooring.
Counter tops – today’s buyers rank granite or natural stone high on their list (if not replacing laminated surfaces, consider expense to replace when arriving at asking price)
Landscaping – doesn’t have to be elaborate. Trim trees, bushes, any dead growth, add fresh pine straw, and large pots of colorful flowers do wonders for entryways.
Open curtains, shades – make rooms light, airy and spacious.
Home Inspections - Have a home inspection done before putting your house on the market. Repairs made by you now are one less thing you may be required to complete if cited in a buyer’s independent home inspection report. If left until days before the closing date – scheduling and getting the subcontractors to complete the repairs can be quite stressful. Before closing, the repairs have to be re-inspected and signed off by the buyer or money may be escrowed until repairs are completed. If buyers perceive they are going to have to spend money on repairs, the offering price may come in less than you anticipated.
“Collections” and Clutter! Say goodbye to the dusty silk arrangements, heavy drapes you paid a fortune for in 1992, and tabletops full of framed family photos. Kitchen and bathroom counters, and desks need to be cleaned off, too.
Make your property clutter-free. This is where you must get thick-skinned, and have an unbiased person consult with you on what “has to go” at least to storage until your moving day. As seen on the popular cable network home shows – one person’s idea of the epitome of style and elegance is another person’s flashback to a decorating nightmare. Make your home as neutral and spacious as possible – buyers want to envision their furniture & belongings in the new space.
NO SMOKING - This tops the list of most offensive lingering odors. Most smokers can’t even tell their home has a smokey air! Upholstery, carpet and even walls seem to absorb smoke – if you can’t quit – at least smoke outside until your home is sold. The home’s interior will probably need a coat of new paint and the carpet and furniture need to be professionally cleaned prior to putting the house on the market. Don’t try to cover it with perfumey candles or plug-ins – they can be almost as bad. If possible, refrain from cooking that favorite fried food, garlicky or curry dishes while your home is on the market.
Man’s Best Friend or pet with nine lives......the olfactory factor continues. Have your upholstery & carpet steam cleaned. Be sure to air out the house if possible before it is shown. Let the agent know where your pets will be while your home is being shown.
