Preparing to Sell

Selling your home doesn′t just mean hiring a realtor to stick a sign out front. There are a lot of

preparations you should make to ensure you get the best offer possible in the shortest time.

Repair. Just because you’ve gotten used to the cracks in the walls and stains in the carpet doesn’t mean a buyer will too. If you have hardwood floors that need refinishing, be sure to get it done—hardwood is a huge selling point. Hiring a professional cleaning crew to come in and chase the cobwebs and stains away is a great low-cost investment. Remember, buyers like to snoop around, so be sure to fix any sticky doors or drawers as well. Finally, don’t forget to address any issues with the exterior—fences, shingles, sidewalks, etc. Once you clean-up the inside, don't forget to freshen-up the outside too.  If your neighbor doesn't have one to borrow, this is a great excuse for your husband to buy a pressure washer. After all, without curb appeal, some buyers may never get to see the inside.  You'd be amazed at how quickly the sidewalk, driveway, and brick cleans up with a good pressure washer.

Neutralize. You want buyers to see themselves in your home. If your living room has lime green shag, wood-paneled walls, and all your collectibles and personal photographs, this will be much harder for them to do. Try replacing any bold color choices in your floors and walls with something more neutral—beiges, tans, and whites. Repainting and reflooring will make everything look fresh and new, and help prospective buyers imagine all the possibilities.

Stage. Once your house is clean and updated, it’s time to play dress up. Home stagers can add small details and décor touches that will bring out the possibilities in the various spaces in your home: lamps, mirrors, throw rugs and pillows, flowers, decorative soaps and towels, patio furniture. Home staging can be particularly useful if your home is especially old or if the exterior looks dated. Think of it as a little mascara and rouge—if it’s done right, you notice the beauty, not the makeup.

April Smith
Keller Williams Real Estate Agent
www.dfwteam1.com
817-243-6508

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