If you plan to sell your home, don’t assume that buyers will automatically love everything about it. Look at your property from a buyer’s perspective and be willing to make at least minor improvements if needed in order attract serious buyers with the best offers.
Curb Appeal
Many house shoppers prefer to drive by an available property to get a first impression. While you can’t do much about location or the neighbors’ homes, you can do plenty with the street view of your house. Keep the lawn trimmed. Make sure the front entrance is clean and welcoming with a freshly-painted door. Add tasteful seasonal décor for an added touch. Create the appearance of a house you would enjoy seeing if you were looking to buy a home.
Inside Rooms
Remove unneeded items from each room to avoid a cluttered look. An open, spacious feel will help the rooms to look bigger. Consider painting rooms that are peeling or that appear dull. Clean the carpets and flooring, and ensure the windows are smudge-free with crisp blinds or draperies. Furniture should be vacuumed or polished, with unnecessary items like dishes or toys put away. Use air fresheners to remove pet odors.
Functionality
Homebuyers and home inspectors will be checking basic aspects of the home, including the foundation and basement, the HVAC system, the roof, exterior siding, windows, electric, and plumbing. Other things may be evaluated as well, but the essentials need to be in good working order to sell a house fast. Show proof of termite treatment or other infestations if warranted. Have receipts available for recent repairs or renovations. Consider buying new kitchen appliances if needed.
Outside
Remove fallen tree limbs and dead shrubs from the lawn. Flower gardens should be weeded and seasonally blooming. You may want to plant a few new flowers or bushes to enhance the outdoor area and ensure it is safe for kids to play in without broken glass or rusty nails. If there is a garage, clean it out to remove trash and debris. Add a coat of paint if it looks aged and deteriorating.
Bonus Areas
Any special nooks, rooms, or areas of your home should be emphasized as bonus perks. These might include an all-season room, a covered patio, a finished basement, a room over the garage, or an office nook area. Extra storage is a plus.
Make the most of your home by marketing its strengths. Fresh paint, removing clutter, and colorful accents can bring out the best in your home for interested buyers.
