Most people dread the long, tedious process of moving and want nothing more than to buying a new home and get settled in right away. Trying to sell your current home is just one task on your moving to-do list, aside from applying for a mortgage and looking for a new place. Fortunately, there are ways to appeal to buyers and sell your home fast.
First Impressions Count
Landscaping, siding—anything that desperately needs some attention should be looked at. Some buyers will immediately say that they aren’t interested in a house just based on the exterior, and will walk away before even stepping foot inside.
Clean Out
Living in a house for just a few years can result in an accumulation of unneeded stuff. Not only is it a good idea to go through these items to determine what you want to take with you, but it’s also useful in terms of showcasing the amount of space in your home. When a house is neat and organized, people are able to take notice of the space and envision their own possessions there.
In addition, finding a place to put any toys, dog beds, and other personal items during an open house is recommended—just don’t throw everything in a closet because there’s a good chance that buyers will explore every room and open every door. The last thing you want buyers to see when they walk in a bedroom, for instance, is an unmade bed, clothes on the floor, and a carpet that hasn’t been vacuumed in months.
Photos Galore
Make sure you have a lot of pictures of your home taken so buyers can get a good look at the interior and exterior because, like other types of purchases, many people start their house search online. However, they’re probably not going to show much interest in a property that only has a photo or two available.
It’s the Little Things
Sometimes a new coat of paint is all that’s needed. Or maybe some new flooring. Small cosmetic updates can definitely help attract buyers. It’s one less thing they have to worry about when they move in and it gives a room an entirely new look.
Choose the Right Real Estate Agent
Real estate agents tell you what the list price should be for your home and help you find a new home. If you’re motivated to sell as quickly as possible, an agent can suggest a competitive price that will grab the attention of buyers. On the other hand, if you want to get top dollar for your home, an agent can advise you based on the comparable sales in the area.
When it comes to pricing, you want to get it right. That way, the property isn’t just sitting on the market. It’s a real estate agent’s job to help you through this process, so even though you may be tempted to try and do it all on your own, you should at least consider the option of meeting with a real estate agent and see what he or she has to say. Researching the housing market can be helpful, but hiring an agent takes a lot of the pressure off you.
Major Renovations can lead to Major Benefits
Some people choose to completely update a room in their home, such as a kitchen or bathroom, before moving, hoping to increase its value. Sometimes spending the money on a project like this does pay off, but other times you don’t get a good return on your investment. This is another reason to hire a real estate agent; he or she can tell you if it’s worth going through a major renovation.
If this proves to be financially beneficial, try to forget about your personal taste as you go through the renovation process. Sticking with classic design elements and neutral colors are ways to help buyers appreciate the house and not what’s in it. You want them to notice the size of the master bedroom and bath rather than the bright-colored walls and loud bathroom tiles.
Not only are these ways to get your house off the market sooner, but as noted before, they also help increase the value of your home. Whether it’s giving the exterior a facelift, going through a small renovation, or cleaning out, these suggestions can make all the difference when you put your house up for sale.
