Remember, first impressions count when selling real estate, so it’s important for your home to stand out. There are several simple and basic things you can do to sell your home.
Increase curb appeal
Landscaping can have a powerful impact in reducing curb appeal. With spring on the way, there are several easy things you can do to make your home attractive from the outside.
1) Mow the grass in diagonal rows to make it appear larger.
2) Edge grass along driveways and sidewalks. This will show the buyer that you care and pay attention to detail.
3) Transplant tulips or other spring flowers near the walkway or anywhere in front. Use bright colors, especially yellow because it stimulates happiness. Consider container plants as well in groups of three to five and place them near the entrance.
home staging
Arrange your home like a home potential buyers can imagine themselves in. Remove extra furniture that clutters the space and place it with maximum impact. This is a technique that model homes have been using successfully for many years.
When prospective buyers visit your home, remove all clutter and store it out of sight (for example, children’s toys in the family room, bills/mail/papers from the study, or makeup/products/appliances from the bathrooms).
Add a new coat of paint
Another thing you can do is paint the walls white (or a neutral color) if they haven’t already. A fresh coat of paint will make everything look cleaner and white walls will allow a prospective home buyer to imagine his own personal style in the house instead of yours. White walls also make every room feel bigger. Avoid dark colors that can put off a buyer if he doesn’t like the color and it makes the room look smaller.
Pay attention to the details
Remember to do the little things to make your home stand out. Details matter. Here are some examples:
1) Wash windows inside and out. Clean all the mirrors.
2) Place fresh flowers with a clean and inviting smell.
3) Polish hardwood floors to a shine and vacuum just before any display.
4) Offer a shoe mat at the entrance and even an umbrella stand. This will encourage potential buyers and agents to kick off their shoes and help keep your floors looking great.
5) Fluff up the pillows and get out clean, brightly colored towels. Even consider replacing these items because they are inexpensive and can add interest to a room.