FIVE THINGS POTENTIAL BUYERS WILL SEE
Selling your home always involves a lot of paper work. However, before you even get to that part of the deal, you will want to address more important matters; the thing your potential buyers will see when they look at your property. Start with a plan and follow it to create real value in the minds of the buyer. Five key areas of your home that buyers will have on their checklist are listed below. Approach them seriously and you will be signing a Purchase and Sale Contract soon.
FOCUS ON THESE FIVE AREAS TO CREATE A GOOD IMPRESSION
1. Curb appeal: First impressions are very important and a buying decision can be made before the potential buyer even gets out of the vehicle. If they feel good about the outside you will most certainly get them in the door. Over the years I have had a number of people say, "No, we don't need to go inside. I don't like the way it looks on the outside." Your home has to say, 'Welcome Home.' For starters, put away the outside toys like bicycles and sports equipment, keep your outdoor supplies organized and in the proper places and, needless to say, mow the lawn and keep the driveway and sidewalk free of snow in the winter if you are in a part of the country where winters are harse. Next, add something like a hanging planter on the porch or fresh paint to the door.
2. Entry foyer: When they come inside your home the second impression must be equally as good. Keep the entry clean and clutter free. If space permits, put a small table there and adorn it with flowers, or a nice rug can add appeal. Insufficient floor space doesn’t permit it? Walls with some simple artwork will help. All members of the household need to know that nothing is to be dropped on the floor when they come home; put shoes, back packs, magazines or mail in there property places.
3. Main living areas: These areas need to be clear and provide an easy path for the buyer to walk through on their visit. Rearrange furniture that doesn’t seem to fit and get rid of some if necessary. Remember, a fresh coat of paint and “no clutter” should be the rule. Within reason family mementos and pictures can stay but if in doubt best pack them away. After all, if you are serious about selling, you’re going to have to do it eventually anyway. The important point here is that buyers want to get a feel for how this home fits them. Give them a helping hand by getting rid of the things you don’t use everyday.
4. Kitchens and baths: The nose knows all. Pay special attention to cleanliness and odors in the kitchen and baths while the home is on the market because they are the spaces that can make or break your sale. Don’t leave home without wiping off countertops and putting away any supplies or personal items. Except for special occasions, keep meals simple while the house is on the market to avoid hard to get rid of odors.
5. Work and storage areas: Here’s the tough part. You’ve gotten rid of all of the clutter in the living areas but stuffed all the leftovers in the garage, basement, or other utility areas. In order to maximize your home's square footage you need to pay attention to the storage areas as well because everyone wants and needs it. When storage areas look inefficient, the rest of the house looks smaller. Clean out the closets. Make your garage look more spacious with hooks for bicycles and tools. Anything you don't need right away should be boxed up and kept in a rented storage unit. The added value in your home will likely exceed monthly storage fees.
Comments