Before you show your home to a buyer…

Ask yourself this question, if I were seeing my house for the first time, would I want to live here?  I am serious, look at it objectively, the exterior, the interior from basement to attic.  I’ve been a Real Estate Salesperson/Associate Broker for more than 20 years and I am always amazed that the majority of homeowners don’t expect to do much to sell their home and get the top price for it.  Don’t misunderstand me, we all have our quirks and live the way we want to live…when we’re not selling!  However, if you really want to sell your home in a reasonable time frame with a selling price that makes you happy, remember that it takes a little work!

Staging your home to sell is very important, particularly during the “buyers’ market” in which we currently find ourselves.  It may be done professionally, but in most cases there are some fairly easy strategies to follow that you can do yourself.

Start with the Clutter

Remove as many knick-knacks, personal photos and “collections” as possible. Anything that doesn’t need to be in a room should be removed so potential buyers can actually see the space and picture their own things in it. Remember the “Rule of 3”.  Three knick-knacks, magazines or accent pieces are all a buyer’s eye can or should take in without being distracted.  Do you really want a buyer to focus on all your trophies or collectibles? Not if you want them to buy your house!      

Let there be Light

Make each and every room in your home as light and bright as possible. If you have to add a lamp or remove heavy window treatments, do it.  I have never had a buyer tell me that they love a dark house, not once!  If you happen to be home before an appointment to show, turn on all the lights in every room.  It is far better to have them on, rather than have an agent do it as he/she shows your house.  

 Repairs

Be sure that there are no glaring cracks, leaks, water stains, rotted wood, peeling paint and broken light fixtures etc.  If the problem is noticeable to you, it will be noticeable to your buyer too, and may be a turn-off!   

Color Calm 

Dramatic or very trendy paint colors may appeal to you and your personal sense of style, but they may not appeal to a buyer.  Changing a bold paint color to a fresh coat of a fairly light neutral color can go a long way toward making a room more attractive.  The same goes for very old or distinct wallpaper.  Buyers very often see wallpaper as a big and expensive undertaking to change. 

Be Sensitive to Household Odors 

Distinct odors, whether they are pet, smoke, cooking or mustiness can be detrimental to the sale of your home!   The old tried and true “bake a batch of cookies” before an Open House still rings true, but not everyone has the time or desire to do that.  Use air purifiers (especially if you are a smoker or have a pet), or lightly scented deodorizers/candles to have your home smell more appealing.

Clean it!

I know it’s hard but try to keep your house as clean as humanly possible!  I once had a listing where the owners thought it was OK to throw their dirty laundry down the basement stairs and let it pile up there until laundry day.  Did they really think buyers, or agents, wanted to see their dirty laundry?  Not likely.  Mop the floors, have your carpets cleaned and vacuum regularly.  Keep your kitchen and bathrooms spotless (grout and caulking shouldn’t be moldy), clean windows and storm door glass.  Keep the toilet seats and lids down…not kidding!

Exterior Impression

Generally, make sure all paint is in good condition (no peeling or cracking).  Power wash the siding and deck if it’s necessary. Trim overgrown shrubs and keep your lawn neat and trim. Adding colorful flowers and/or window boxes add to your home’s curb appeal. Keep sidewalks and driveways in good repair. Depending upon the season, keep all walkways free of leaves, snow and pet droppings.  Put away extra toys, garden tools etc. Buyers will want to walk around your property, make sure there is nothing in their way.

Your front door needs to make a great first impression! Check for peeling or cracked paint, wood rot, broken glass, difficult door knob etc.  Making simple repairs and giving your front door a fresh coat of paint is one of the easiest ways to “dress it up”.  Consider adding flower pots or small potted shrubs near the door which will highlight it and make it more attractive.

These tips are not meant to be overwhelming, but following them will help your home to stand out from the rest and make it easier to sell.  Remember, your home is not your castle when you’re trying to sell it.  Think of it as a stage, with the buyer as your audience!