If you’re looking to sell your home, you’re probably hoping for a quick, hassle-free transaction. Some properties sell within minutes, while others can be on the market for months, even years. The location, style, and size of your home are important, but the way you present the property can really make a difference. Before you take pictures for online galleries and brochures or invite buyers to take a look around, here are some tips to help you get your home ready for sale.
Cleaning and decluttering
There are few things more off-putting for potential buyers than properties that are messy, dirty, and full of clutter. Clutter makes rooms like cramped, small and dark, and stained windows, floors, and surfaces can create a negative first impression. Before you put your home up for sale, embark upon a decluttering mission, clearing your home out and throwing away or donating anything you don’t want or need any longer. Tidy your home from top to bottom and use storage to prevent new piles of clutter forming. Once you have tackled the inside of the house, move into the garden and garage and continue the operation. Chuck any items you don’t use anymore, and spruce up lawns, patios, and flowerbeds. Pressure washing is an effective way to get rid of stubborn dirt and mud and enhance curb appeal. Many of us dread large-scale tidying missions, but if you can power through and check this box on your to-do list, you’ll be amazed at the difference.
Painting
Painting is one of the simplest and most affordable ways to make your home look better both on the inside and outside. If you have walls that are brightly colored, or you’ve added printed wallpaper that is no longer on-trend, it’s a good idea to buy some paint in neutral shades and freshen up the interior. Light colors and subtle tones create the illusion of more space and light, and they give buyers the chance to look at a blank canvas. On the outside of your home, you can apply a fresh coat of paint to the front door, the window frames, and the facade. Before you start painting, wipe down the surface and sand it for a smooth finish. You might need more than one coat. If you do need to add a layer, wait for the first coat to dry.
Finishing touches
Many of us have accessories at home, but they’re not always appealing to buyers. If you’re preparing to put your home on the market, remove personalized items, for example, family photos, and replace them with vases of flowers, candles, or potted plants. Use a diffuser or scented candles to add a pleasant aroma and maximize natural light by opening the curtains wide and hanging mirrors on the wall. Outside, you can make your home look more welcoming and inviting by adding planters or small trees to your porch.
Every seller wants to attract buyers from the outset. If you’re ready to sell your home, take a moment to check this list and make sure you’re giving yourself the best chance of getting the offer you want.
