It’s important to see your home with fresh eyes – the way a buyer would. Visiting open houses in your area helps you gauge the competition and get ideas on how best to present your own.
The appeal of any house is enhanced by the 4 D’s. These steps help buyers to imagine living in the space.
- Deep cleaning
- Deodorizing
- Decluttering
- Depersonalizing
If your home hasn’t been improved for several years and you have time and money, cosmetic updates will help you sell faster and for a higher price. New paint and refinished or re-carpeted floors usually give the best return. A little landscaping can do a lot for curb appeal. And refreshing kitchens and baths is also a good investment.
Taking care of any minor repairs is important for first impressions. And major repairs, though costly, can mean the difference between selling or not. The main systems in your home – electrical, plumbing and heating/cooling/ventilation – should be in good working order as well as major appliances. There should be no threats to the structural integrity of your home, such as a failing roof or moisture in your crawlspace or basement. If you choose not to make major repairs, you can set a list price that takes their cost into account and let buyers know. Disclosure of known defects protects you from lawsuits; is the right thing to do; and heads off surprises, stalemates and breakdowns at the negotiating table.
Posted in: FAQ for Sellers