Fall is one of the best times to sell your home, but to get the true market value for your house it pays to do your homework. Your first step should be to talk to an experienced realtor. They will be able to educate you on the current housing market, assess the demand in your neighborhood and make recommendations on what (if any) work is needed to realize the maximum market value of your home. Often sellers hesitate to list their home through concern about costly renovations or remodeling, which may not be necessary especially when inventory is limited. Here are our Top 5 Tips for quick and simple things you can do to get your home ready for sale.*
Take care of minor repairs – you don’t want a small issue to become a big deal in the eyes of a potential buyer, so before you put your home on the market take care of any dripping faucets, torn window screens, broken lamps etc. Minor repairs will always pay for themselves, but consult with your agent before undertaking any major renovations – you might not get the return on your investment.
Declutter – even if you are not downsizing, a move is an ideal time to take a good hard look at your belongings and decide if everything really does “spark joy”. Clearing out closets and cupboards also makes it easier for potential buyers to see just how much storage space your home offers. Not only will this make it easier to sell your home, it will also make the move itself easier if you have already cleared out or packed away some of your belongings. Consider renting a storage unit to move out larger furniture temporarily. Pro-tip – keep your closets half-empty during showings to showcase the available space.
Depersonalize – while you are clear-out mode, remove anything that personalizes your home – family photos, memorabilia, collectibles etc. You want potential buyers to be able to picture themselves in the home, which is hard to do if it still very much looks and feels like your home.
Let the light in – buyers are looking for a bright home that lets in lots of natural light, so make the most of what you’ve got! Get your windows sparkling inside and out, and then use some clever tricks to maximize the light – remove heavy drapes and replace with light linen or gauze, use higher wattage bulbs, change lampshades, and cut back any bushes that might be encroaching on your windows.
Boost your curb appeal – make a good first impression by improving your front entrance however you can. Sweep your front step, wipe down your front door and polish any hardware, and invest in some bright potted plants or flowers to welcome people in. Add a welcome mat and fresh flowers to greet people as they come in and you are off to a good start!
When it comes to selling your home, it pays to call in the professionals. All150+ Barrett Sotheby’s International Realty agents are knowledgeable about the neighborhoods they serve and have experience selling homes in all price ranges. Contact us today to start your home sale journey.
*If your home does need to some work to get ready for prime time, our Refresh, Renovate, Stage program can manage the work for you - FIND OUT MORE.
