Are you trying to get your house ready to sell? If so, there are a couple of things you should know.
Getting your home ready to sell isn’t a simple thing. It requires some calculations. Many buyers are a fickle lot, and they can fall in – or out – of love with a home for a number of reasons.
Here’s how to prep your house and turn it into an irresistible and marketable home.
Make the House Sparkle
This is a HUGE deal. Cleaning your home should go beyond the usual weekly or day-to-day cleaning job. Having a quick sale of your home means giving a brand-new feel to the house. Take the time to really scrub your house top to bottom.
This could be extremely time-consuming, so you’ll want some hired assistance. Here are some spring cleaning tips for your house.
- Clean out cobwebs.
- Wax floors.
- Polish chrome mirrors and faucets.
- Rent a pressure washer and spray down sidewalks and exterior.
- Wash windows inside and out.
- Replace worn rugs.
- Re-caulk tubs, showers, and sinks.
Focus on Curb Appeal
Your home’s exterior and curb appeal are important. As such, you have to do everything possible to make it look its best. Do the following:
- Mow the lawn.
- Keep the sidewalks cleared.
- Make sure window coverings hang level.
- Examine carefully how furniture is arranged and make any changes if need be.
- Paint faded window trim.
- Make sure your house number is easily readable.
De-Clutter, Depersonalize, and Organize
Small details can make your home look dumpy without you even realizing it. Staging your home helps you hide its weaknesses, highlight your home’s strengths and appeal to buyers.
It is important to depersonalize and de-clutter your home. Remove all personal items, such as diplomas, photographs, and even overtly religious items.
You should aim to have a home like the ones shown in the furniture ads. They look fantastic, don’t they? There are just a couple of decorations on the wall, and a couple of end tables, a chair, and window treatments. That’s it.
To de-clutter, you may need to:
- Clean off everything from kitchen outdoors.
- Pack up those knickknacks.
- Remove all books from bookcases.
- Put essential items used daily in a small box that can be packed away when not in use.
- Donate!
Disassociate Yourself with Your Home
Learning to let go is difficult. But as much as it is difficult, it is no longer just your home. It’s an asset you’re trying to get top dollar for. You’ve got to make that break. Here are a few tips:
- Say goodbye to every room. Talk out loud about your memories whilst standing in the doorway.
- Imagine yourself handing over the ownership to the new owners, including the keys and envelopes containing warranties to appliances.
- Let go of the past. Look toward the future.
Light and Bright
Make sure all lighting fixtures are working. Swap out the light bulbs for a flattering and soft wattage that invokes a cozy yet welcoming feel. Opt for bulbs that emit red-toned and yellow-toned hues.
Also, make sure your blinds and window coverings are working, as you may need to open them when showcasing your home. If you have a worn-out carpet, consider replacing it. And if you have dark or vibrant colors, think of getting more neutral colors.
Sometimes children can make it difficult to keep the carpets and paint clean. To help keep them clean at least during the home-selling time, establish a “no shoes in the house” rule. Make them leave their shoes outside by the door when they come home.
Second Opinions
Before you put your house on the market, consider getting an opinion from somebody you trust and value. This can be a professional stager, your real estate agent, or an honest friend. In case of a friend, make sure it’s someone who is going to be objective.
Conclusion
Your home is likely your largest investment. When it’s time to sell, you’ll likely want your investment to be impressive and earn top dollar. By following the tips above, you’ll not only be ensuring your property is sold faster, but that it has a potential to add thousands to its value.
Author: Joel Sidaka
