First Impressions
You've listed your home for sale. Now it's time to "show it off."
Your home can be sold more quickly and at a better price by implementing some of the following tips for the best ways to show your home to potential buyers. Put yourself in the place of the buyer and assess your own property as though you were looking to buy it. What improvements could be made to enhance its attractiveness?
How can I sell my home quickly?
Show it off from the street. A well-kept, neatly landscaped property will help act as "bait" to lure the potential buyer in to see your home. Refuse containers should be out of view and the lawn freshly trimmed. Fertilizing a few weeks prior to listing will help your lawn look lush and green. Woodwork should be free of chipped or cracking paint. If necessary, repaint.
The entry is important. The front door should be clean or freshly painted. Brass knobs should be polished with brass cleaner. You might consider placing a planter of fresh flowers on your front porch.
Minor repairs can help tremendously. Repair all loose doorknobs and cupboard hinges, dripping faucets, stained sinks, loose or missing caulking, sticking doors and windows, and damaged or missing window screens.
Clutter is unattractive. Neatness makes a room look lrager. Workout rooms, sewing rooms, laundry rooms, home offices, basements and attics should be as organized and clutter-free as the main living space of your home.
Lighting does wonders. Drapes, curtains and miniblinds should be open to allow plenty of light into your home. An open, airy feeling generates comfort and welcomes the potential buyer into your home. Turn on all the lights when showing your home at night. Use brighter bulbs if necessary.
Closet space is a plus! Neat, well-organized closets appear larger. Larger closets help sell homes.
Bathrooms should sparkle. Remove stains from sinks, toilets and bathtubs, including hard-water spots on shower enclosure doors. If drains run slowly, unclog them. Hang fresh towels on towel racks.
Kitchens should be clean. The kitchen is the most important room in the house. Make it bright and attractive. The emptier it is, the larger it will appear. Avoid dirty dishes in the sink or on counters. Countertop appliances should be kept in cupboards. Clean the ventilating hood over the stove. Replace or repair worn-out flooring.
Avoid having too many people present. The potential buyer may feel uncomfortable or pressured, and hurry through the house. Don't force conversation with the buyer. If they have questions, they'll ask you.
Turn down the stereo or television.
Keep pets out of the way - preferably out of the house.
Never apologize for the appearance of your home. After all, you live there.