Are you thinking of selling your home this spring? Discover expert tips and essential steps to prepare your property for a successful sale, maximizing its appeal in the competitive real estate market. Here are 11 tips to help you prep your home for sale.
Maximize Curb Appeal
Getting them through the front door starts at the curb.
- Manicure the lawn
- Trim the trees and shrubs
- Pull weeds
- Plant some colorful flowers
- Clear the walkways
- Fix peeling paint
- Wind up that hose
- Paint the address number on the curb
Make Repairs to Visible Blemishes
Is there something that’s an eyesore, but an easy fix? If looking at it bothers you, it could bother a potential buyer and reduce the appeal of your home.
- Replace burnt out light bulbs
- Fix that loose door handle
- Make needed paint touch-ups
Make a Buyer’s Entrance Inviting
- Freshly paint the front door with a color that contrasts the house
- Add a new welcome mat
- Hang a fresh wreath on the door
Let the Light Shine In
- Remove heavy window coverings to let in the natural light we all crave.
- Add lamps to brighten up darker areas to add more cheer.
Remove the Clutter
This serves two purposes. First, you want your home to have an open and inviting appearance. Removing clutter will make rooms appear larger and more appealing. Second, it helps YOU prepare to move. Going through the clutter and getting rid of what you don’t need will make your move much easier.
Remove Personal Items
It will be much easier for a potential buyer to imagine your home as theirs when they can envision their own items in it.
Highlight Special Features
Use accents and color to draw eyes to special features that you want potential buyers to notice—throw pillows, plants or other eye-catching accessories.
Add Mirrors
Use mirrors to make rooms look larger and lighter. Position them opposite windows for best effect.
Clean Out Cabinets and Closets
Buyers are nosy and they WILL open the cabinets. Make sure your contents are orderly and organized.
Eliminate Odors
Clean to remove any odors and do not cook any meals with heavy, lasting smells before a showing.
Add Aromas
You can easily add appeal by quartering an orange and adding it to a pot of water with a cinnamon stick and simmer on low for an inviting aroma. Or bake a fresh batch of cookies (and leave a plate of them on the counter for visitors).
