AUGUST 17, 2016

Eight Tips to Prepare Your Home for SaleSo, you’ve decided to sell your home but don’t know where to start? It takes time and planning to get your home market ready, but a well-maintained home can help you get the best price in the shortest amount of time.




CALL A REAL ESTATE EXPERT FOR HELP

The first step is to choose a good listing agent who will become familiar with your home and all it has to offer. Your Realtor will complete a market analysis based on comparable homes that have sold in the area, so that together you’ll set the best price for your home. Your agent may also suggest any needed updates that will deliver the best return on your investment, and some even provide home staging tips to make your home look more inviting.
They’ll encourage you to scrutinize your home like a buyer. You’ll want to walk through every room and make a list of what needs to be repaired, repainted or de-cluttered. To simplify these tasks, here is a list of our top recommendations to help you get your home looking its best to prepare it for sale.

  1. Maximize Curb Appeal

    • Cut grass, pull weeds, trim hedges, sweep leaves and debris from your front walkway and porch.
    • Paint your front door if needed.

  2. Declutter

    • Clean closets, basement and garage, and clear kitchen counters.
    • Rent a storage unit for off-season clothes and bulky furniture.

  3. Clean

    • Dust and clean ceiling fan blades, fireplace mantle, appliances, faucets, moldings, baseboards and windows.
    • Consider getting your carpets professionally cleaned.

  4. Repair

    • Fix or replace anything that is broken.

  5. De-personalize

    • Remove family photos, kid’s artwork on the refrigerator and knickknacks.

  6. Brighten up

    • Open all shades and blinds.
    • Add floor or table lamps to dim areas; turn all lights on for evening showings.

  7. Appeal to the Senses

    • Bake cookies or bread, or light a scented candle for a homey smell.

  8. Create a Spa-like Bathroom

    • Add a luxurious look with plants, scented candles, colorful coordinating towels, washcloths and rugs.
Once you have put in the hard work and hired the right agent to advise you along the way, your home is sure to make a favorable impression on potential buyers.