Selling a home today is difficult. It can become costly and time consuming. The way home values have fallen many sellers find it difficult spending any money on getting the property ready for the market. Sellers today are competing with foreclosures, short sales and homes that may be in top condition. Not preparing the home before putting it on the market can put a seller at an even greater disadvantage. Investing a little time and money can help to give you an advantage that can reduce the amount of time it takes to sell and increase the chances that you'll actually sell it for more than you otherwise would have.
As in any market, with some direction and hard work there are preparations that can be made inexpensively. A lot can be done that doesn't cost much at all as long as you're willing to invest the time.
For example:
- Curb appeal. I believe this is where it all begins. Adding inviting color and simple displays to the exterior and garden will help to make the home attractive from the road. Exterior paint may be the greatest enhancement you can make in order to create interest and begin a successful selling process. I've had a client who was approached by an interested buyer before he had a chance to put the ladder and tools away.
- Be sure your front door and entrance way are clean, attractive and inviting. Buyers spend time here waiting for you. A properly staged entrance will create a positive first impression and convey a feeling of comfort. Stage the home to project that first great impression and a welcome feeling.
- Personal possessions should be packed away. It will save you time and allow you to get rid of things that you may no longer want. Buyers will be better able to see the home for what it is rather than focus on your stuff.
- Declutter counter tops, tables, walls, closets, office and laundry areas. Buyers want to be able to see what the home has to offer. Remove clutter and keep rooms as simple as possible.
- Arranging furniture is key to allowing the home to appear open and spacious. I often see a sofa placed across the center of a room greeting buyers with the back of a sofa when they walk into the room. Move sofas against walls and place a chair opposite it. This will open up the room and create a flow.
- Furniture size is sometimes not right for showing a home. Over sized or too much furniture can create doubts as to how large a room really is. Too much large furniture in a bedroom can create concern for a buyer. Properly staged, a room should be accommodating to the furniture in it.
It may be worthwhile to hire a professional to help stage your home. Some sellers only need an initial consultation with the staging decorator. A good home staging decorator will be able to point out what you should keep and what should be removed before you begin showing the house. Ask for recommendations on arranging furniture and artwork. Remember, the way you live is not necessarily the best way to show it to prospective buyers.
For more help with getting your home ready to sell contact me at 561-306-6736 or email me at rebuygeorge@yahoo.com
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