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TIPS TO HELP HOME SELLERS
Thousands of articles have been written to help sellers prepare
their home for a competitive real estate market. In almost every
article the suggestion is made to “stage your home to sell.”
Many no- or low-cost improvements can help sell the home close to the asking
price and much faster. Consider the following suggestions before you put your
home on the market:
- Clean Up The Clutter. Thin our closets, clear out the garage
and take down extensive art to give your home a more open feel.
Even if this requires a storage facility, the expense is worth
the effort. Buyers feel more comfortable viewing a clean, uncluttered
home and tend to consider the prospect of buying it because their
belongs would fit.
- Make Needed Repairs. Buyers will lower their offer to cover costs
of repairs so fix what is obvious before putting the house on the
market. If you know a door is broken, a sink leaks, a light flickers,
or the shower needs caulking, don’t wait until the buyers
try to use these as negotiating tools to lower the price.
- Lighten and Brighten. Make sure rooms are bright with lots of
light, open blinds and replace any burned-out bulbs. Trade heavy
drapery for sheers and trim shrubs blocking windows. A brighter
appearance strengthens the home’s appeal to buyers.
- Make Subtle Improvements That Pay. Painting to lighten and brighten
is a good value especially if using neutral, warm colors for that
welcoming appeal. Bold accent colors should be used sparingly.
Other subtle changes like replacing the rusty porch light, switch
plate
covers, outdated kitchen cabinet hardware and plumbing fixtures
can make a big difference in the look and feel of the home. Installing
new carpeting is the most expensive upgrade and may be one that
is unavoidable; however, don’t expect to add that cost to
the price.
- Stage the Showing. Leave the home smelling of fresh baked cookies,
displayed on the kitchen counter for guests. Burn candles if you
don’t bake. (Avoid heavy floral scents which can be overwhelming.)
Leave lights on, interior doors open and soft music playing. This
can really make a buyer feel at home!
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