Preparing Your House for Sale
Inventories of homes for sale are high all across the country as competition continues from distressed properties. Fewer than usual qualified buyers are looking for homes.
If you are thinking of selling, follow some time-honored advice, good for all seasons and especially in challenging markets. Impressions start at the curbside draw prospects to the front door, then on inside. So start with the garden.
Prune and cut back overgrowth.
Rake or blow leaves
Spring is the perfect time to add new plants or replace those that did not make it through the winter.
When your prospect arrives at the front door, let it be as welcoming as the garden.
Repair cracked or peeling paint or repaint the entire door for a fresh look
Put a shine on handles and other hardware.
Once you get your prospective buyer through the door, you want to have them choose your house from among the many that match their criteria: Having a welcoming; squeaky-clean, uncluttered house is most important.
Toss out old, soiled area rugs.
Shampoo the carpet.
Wash floors
Wipe walls with soap and water or touch up with paint if soil is not extensive. If maintenance was deferred or paint colors are dated, consider repainting entire house in a neutral color.
Replace tattered window coverings with easy-care blinds
Wash windows
Clean blades of ceiling fans
Clean light fixtures and wash shades
Clean the refrigerator, stove, ovens
Remove clutter from every room. Let the surfaces of your countertops show.
If you are a smoker, stop or start smoking outdoors. (This will enlarge your pool of buyers.)
Once your homework is done, call your REALTOR, to consult on pricing, market strategies and getting it listed. Await your steady stream of visitors.
Eloise Gift