Selling a house can be a daunting process, especially if you’re new to the game. One of the first steps to take before listing your home is to make sure it’s in tip-top shape. You may have even heard of “home staging,” which is when you prep your home to appeal to potential buyers. It can be overwhelming to know where to start, but don’t worry! Here are five essential things to check off your list before putting your home on the market.
Curb Appeal
First impressions matter, and your home’s curb appeal is the first thing potential buyers will notice when they arrive at your home. Take a look at your home’s exterior. Does it look neat and inviting? Is the lawn mowed? Are the plants and shrubs trimmed? Consider adding new plants and flowers to add some color.
Don’t forget to pay attention to your front porch or entryway. A fresh coat of paint on your front door, new welcome mat, and tidy porch furniture can make a big impact. You want potential buyers to feel welcomed and excited to enter your home. These small changes can make a world of difference.
Declutter and Depersonalize
When potential buyers come to your home, they want to envision themselves living there. That can be challenging if your walls are plastered with family photos, trophies, and artwork. Make your home a blank slate so potential buyers can easily visualize their possessions in your space. By decluttering and depersonalizing, buyers can see the potential of the house without getting distracted by your items.
When staging your home, it’s essential to keep the décor neutral and minimal. This helps potential buyers focus on the space and not get distracted by personal preferences. Consider adding a few touches such as fresh flowers, candles, or a bowl of fruit to add warmth and charm. You can also hang some simple artwork or decorate with neutral-colored throw pillows to make the rooms feel inviting. Avoid using bold or bright colors, as they can be overwhelming and may not appeal to everyone’s taste. Remember, less is more when it comes to staging a home.
Fix the Place Up
It’s easy to put off minor repairs when you’re living in the house, but it’s crucial to get them fixed before you list your home on the market. Walk around your home and make a list of every minor thing you’ve noticed, like a leaky faucet or a cracked tile. Putting these checks and items off to later may be a major concern for buyers. It’s better to take care of these small repairs beforehand to avoid any mishaps later.
While minor repairs are important to address, it’s crucial to identify any major repairs that may need to be done before listing your home on the market. These could include issues with the foundation, roof, or electrical and plumbing systems. If possible, hire a professional home inspector to thoroughly assess your property and provide you with a detailed report of any major concerns. Be sure to check for any weather or pest damage, and call pest or termite services if necessary. It’s better to address these major repairs as soon as possible rather than having them come up during negotiations with potential buyers.
Clean and Neutralize
Cleanliness plays a vital role in staging your home. A clean home can make a house glow with warmth over an unclean and undervalued space. It’s possible to give your home an entirely new life as you clean the surfaces, floors, counters, and windows. Additionally, it is essential to reduce or neutralize any unpleasant odors in your home. Quite often, buyers will reject a home if the smell is overpowering. Get rid of cooking smells, pet odors, and any other undesirable smell.
When cleaning your home before staging it, there are a few places that you should pay special attention to. These areas include the kitchen and bathrooms, as these spaces tend to accumulate the most dirt and grime. Be sure to thoroughly clean all surfaces, including countertops, sinks, and appliances. Don’t forget to scrub the floors and walls as well. In addition, make sure to clean all windows and mirrors to ensure a clear and sparkling view. It’s also important to declutter and organize closets, cabinets, and storage spaces, as potential buyers will be looking at these areas as well.
Price Your Home Correctly
Pricing your home is the most important, yet challenging, part of selling your home. You may think your home is worth more than its actual value, but it’s important to do your due diligence. Work with a real estate agent to research homes in your area with similar features and condition, location, and amenities. Be prepared to adjust your asking price depending on the market and interest in your home. Overall, it’s essential to price your home at its fair market value, meaning that what others are offering the same value of your property.
Preparing your home for sale can be both financially and emotionally rewarding, but don’t underestimate the work it takes to get your home in tip-top shape. Make sure you follow these five essential things before listing your home on the market. Whether it’s decluttering and depersonalizing, fixing minor repairs, or pricing your home correctly, these steps can help increase your chances of selling your home quickly and for top dollar.