Listen to me talk about this article in my podcast.
Start with these Tips for Sellers:
(2) To get your home ready, follow the tips below, and enlist outside input on your home's appeal. This can be the difference between selling quickly for top dollar, and having your home languish on the market.
a. Think like an outsider: Consider the impact your home makes from the moment you drive up. Are there trouble spots you don't even notice anymore? Does your home look tired?Neglected? Disorganized? Outdated? Are there odd smells?
b. Think like an inspector: Look at the electrical, the plumbing, the roof”¦ everywhere. Are there some things you can afford to have repaired or replaced? Don't leave an inexpensive problem unaddressed and scare off potential buyers.
c. Think like a decorator: People need to imagine themselves in your home. This can be very hard if your personal things are everywhere. Store collectibles and family photos out of sight.Redesign mismatched areas to give your home a harmonious vibe. (Such as remedying a bathroom with a silver faucet and gold vanity pulls.) Tone down loud wall colors with fresh neutral paint.
d. Think like a buyer: Room sizes, kitchens, and baths sell homes. Maximize room and storage sizes by rearranging furniture, and organizing cupboards and drawers. Minimize concerns byremoving pets and cleaning very thoroughly. You don't want buyers so turned off by filth, or so scared of your dog, that they won't even consider your home.
e. Think like an agent: A stellar real estate agent will do things like: take a lot of pictures, describe the home's positives, and list room dimensions. Be prepared to give your agent information about anything that sets your home apart, room measurements, and dates and details of any upgrades or improvements. Have rooms sparkling and photo-worthy. After listing, keep the home ready to show at any time, and your schedule as open as possible. The more available the home is to view, the faster it will sell. And, of course, keep your phone handy at all times, so your agent can immediately contact you with offers!