Before putting your house on the market, there are plenty of things you can do to make it more appealing for potential buyers. Fully preparing your home for sale can make a considerable difference in the time it takes to sell it. You can help eliminate buyer objections before they arise by making simple repairs and improvements. Consider the following tips:
Outdoor
• Spruce up your garden and lawn by trimming shrubbery and replacing dead plants.
• The yard and patio should be neat, and outdoor furniture should be clean and in good shape.
• Clean or paint your front door.
• Manicure your front yard, and make sure your driveway and entryway are free of clutter.
Living areas
• Apply fresh paint as needed. Consider brightening your interiors with neutral-toned paint.
• Clean carpets and window coverings.
• Replace burnt out light bulbs.
• Clean the fireplace and remove smoke stains from the wall and mantle.
• Replace damaged window blinds.
Bathrooms
• Clean mirrors, glass, chrome and porcelain surfaces.
• Replace the shower curtain if necessary.
• Fix any faucet drips or leaks.
• Clean grout and caulking; replace if necessary.
Overall
• Make sure all doors, windows and cabinets don’t stick or squeak.
• Clean your furnace and water heater so buyers know they’re looking at a house that has been well maintained.
For many people, buying a home is the largest investment they’ll ever make. Consequently, choosing the right real estate professional is an important first step. “You absolutely need a seasoned problem solver and expert negotiator to close a transaction,” advises Lisa Blaylock, an associate with Coldwell Banker. “The process requires full engagement with all the parties involved—buyers and sellers, inspectors, lenders, termite companies and so forth.”
Ms. Blaylock says every modern real estate transaction has an inherent wildcard that has nothing to do with the seller, buyer or two agents. “It’s about financing. The lending side of things is the biggest issue today. Make sure you choose an experienced realtor who can effectively communicate and navigate the entire transaction process.”
