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Everyone I know who’s considering selling their home, wants it sold quickly. These are some of my tips to enable you to accomplish this.
1. CLEAN, CLEAN, CLEAN! That means everything. Vacuum everything and everywhere, ceilings, floors, furniture. Get all those cobwebs that nobody notices on a regular basis. If there is wall to wall broadloom, rent a steam cleaner to remove stains and deep down dirt. Windows sparkling, floors washed, baseboards and window sills wiped down, bathrooms must be spotless, kitchen scrubbed from top to bottom including the stove vent, cleaning the fridge, stove and dishwasher inside and out. If the appliances are staying with the home, clients will look inside. Curtains washed and if there are blinds, wipe all slats to remove dust. Don’t forget about the laundry room. Vacuum around the washer and dryer, especially the dryer vent to remove any dust and lint build-up. Again cleaning inside and outside of the appliances.
2. DE-CLUTTER. Remove all excessive collections and most personal items, such as photographs and religious items. Your goal is to have the client imagine themselves living here. Keep in mind you’re planning on moving anyway, so this is the perfect time to start packing. Don’t remove everything or it will look like sterile and very impersonal. Bathrooms are another area to keep clear of excess items. Counters should be free of hair dryers, curling irons, personal items such as medications, hair products and makeup. Just imagine how a hotel bathroom appears when you first walk in, how big it looks without clutter on the counter and in the tub/shower area. Remember to do the same in all closets because once again the client will look inside. Less clutter in your closets will make them appear larger and everyone today is looking for good storage space. Playrooms and kids bedrooms should be clear of an abundance of toys scattered everywhere. Purchase plastic totes and organize their toys. Again, this is the perfect time to go through the items and either pack them up for moving or donate to charity.
3. MAINTENANCE. Fix all those minor repairs that you’ve been putting off. Screen doors, loose tiles, chipped caulking, painting touch ups, squeaking hinges, loose wires and even cracked switch plate covers. Replace any burnt out light bulbs. At the same time you may want to upgrade the wattage of the bulbs in areas which are darker. Attending to these minor projects will convey to the client that your home is well maintained.
4. ODORS. If there are pets or smokers in the home, the smells will be the first thing the client will notice when they open the front door. This also applies to cooking odors. Not everyone likes the smell of curry or garlic. Smoke outside. If possible have someone look after your pet or keep the litter box exceptionally clean and odor free. This also applies to the basement. Make sure it’s not damp and musty smelling. If there is a moisture issue, invest in a dehumidifier and use air fresheners.
5. CURB APPEAL. The outside of your home is just as important. This is the clients first impression of your home, it will either draw them in or turn them away. Cut and trim the grass, flower beds edged and hoed, decks washed down, patio furniture clean, outside windows washed, trim shrubs and trees and wash down siding. Replace or repaint house numbers and mailbox, if needed. Move garbage pails and recycling bins into the garage or shed, so they are not a focal point at the front of the house. Adding potted flowers near the front door will add a burst of color. Make it look so inviting that the client will think there’s nothing to do but move in and enjoy their new home. If selling in the fall, rake all leaves. During the winter shovel all walks and driveway for a clear path and clean entry.
6. ACCENTUATE THE POSITIVE. A large window is an asset, pull the drapes back and let the sun pour into the room. If you’re lucky enough to have a fireplace, make sure it’s the focal point of the room. Remove excess ornaments and keep the area clean looking so the client will be drawn to the fireplace and not all the distractions surrounding it. If it’s a non-working fireplace, add a selection of candles arranged inside the opening. Make a sun porch homey and inviting by adding a bistro set or porch swing. The client will picture themselves sitting out there enjoying a morning cup of coffee.
Following these tips will help sell your home. When your home is first listed, there is usually an open house exclusively for realtors and if they like what they see, they will be excited to show your house, resulting in a quick sale.