10 Things to do Before Putting Your Home on the Market:

by Gaye Moth, Realtor

In this tough real estate market sellers need to do everything they can to catch the eye of a “ready, willing & able” buyer. These simple tips may get you on the right road to selling your home.

1) Get a Pre-Listing Home Inspection – it lets the buyer know that you are serious about the process. It should alert you to any major home issues and you’ll also avoid nasty surprises after you have a sales contract.

2) Make a great first impression. The first thing that a prospective buyer will see is usually your front yard. You don’t need to spend a ton on landscaping but spending a day pulling weeds and cutting the lawn is a good investment.

3) Have a welcoming entrance – Spend extra time making sure that the front porch and door is super clean. Wash away the cobwebs, sweep the steps and for extra impact, a freshly painted front door and gleaming new door hardware will win everytime.

4) De-clutter – Take a snapshot of each room, and be honest with yourself. To what are your eyes drawn? Is it a good or bad feature? Edit your artwork, ornaments or even stuffed animals. Box up the extras and it won’t be a waste of effort on moving day! Large furniture or too many pieces can shrink a room.

5) Clean – Paint over scuff marks on the walls and shampoo carpets if necessary. When I open the door to a house the nicest thing I encounter is a faint clean smell, citrus products work well but beware, don’t go overboard on the bleach!

6) Depersonalize – You may love seeing your family photos around but a buyer needs to see themselves living in your home. Take down the kids’ art from the refrigerator (along with your dry cleaning ticket, the babysitters number and anything else that is up there)!

7) Give each room a logical function – You may have been using your dining room as a home business office, but when it comes time to sell, buyers shouldn’t be trying to work out a good way to use the space.

8) Get estimates for big ticket items – You may not wish to replace the roof or install hardwood floors but if you know something needs doing it’s useful information to have on hand.

9) Dig out any warranties, maintenance contracts, receipts or guarantees for items that are staying with the house.

10) For most people their home is their largest single financial investment. So even if you have no intention of moving, home maintenance and renovation is always a good use of your time and money. It’s a great feeling to enjoy the space in which you live!

Gaye Moth, REALTOR

Coldwell Banker Traditions

757 389 1040