When it comes to selling a house, appearances really do matter. Creating a successful home listing takes a lot more than a few pictures and a couple paragraphs of text. In a competitive marketplace, sellers must devise a strategy and follow through on all of the important details to maximize their chances of finding a buyer. While there are dozens of different ways to spark interest in viewers, there are a few essential steps that everyone selling a home should follow to get the most out of their listing.
Clean and Organize the House
One of the first things to do when preparing a home for listing is to clean it from top to bottom. Even if it will be weeks or months before the earliest move out date, getting rid of clutter and keeping everything clean is one of several simple ways to increase resale value. Keeping everything organized, tidy and sanitary creates a welcoming environment to potential buyers and indicates that the house has been properly maintained.
Kitchen and Bathroom Upgrades
Investing in remodeling and installations right before selling a house may increase its value, but it’s not always worth the cost. However, sellers should consider upgrading the fixtures, floors and cabinets in bathrooms and kitchens. These areas are a top priority for most buyers, so it’s a good idea to make them the highlights of the listing. Outdated toilets and soap-stained faucets can be an eyesore that detracts from the rest of the property.
Get a Professional Opinion
Many homeowners feel completely out of their depth when creating a listing and preparing their home for sale. Houses represent a significant investment, so it’s a good idea to consult with an experienced industry expert before moving forward. Comprehensive real estate firms, like Re-Max of Boulder, Inc, are equipped to help property owners with all aspects of the selling process. They can help make listings more attractive and provide marketing support to help them reach a wider range of prospective buyers.
Take Quality Pictures and Footage
It’s hard to take too many pictures when selling a house. Potential buyers browsing available properties want to see the outside, inside and the land around the house in full detail. Images may not tell the whole story, but they are a staple of any home listing. Some sellers even invest in the services of a professional home photographer who can capture detailed images that inform and entice viewers. Video tours are also a great way to grab attention and give your listing an engaging edge.
While there is no specific formula that is guaranteed to make a listing successful, these basic steps are a good place to start. It’s also a good idea to start planning for the process months in advance to allow for time to address issues that arise during inspections and repairs. An attractive listing requires planning and hard work, but the reward is worth the extra work.