First impressions are critical in many aspects of life, and it’s particularly true in real estate. When potential buyers stop in front of a home, their minds compare it to other properties they’ve seen. A savvy seller wants to capitalize on that reaction and make that initial introduction warm and welcoming, inviting someone to enter and get to know their home.
#1 Improve Curb Appeal
Make your home attractive outside, and people will want to see more. Consult a professional landscaper.
- Cut the grass and trim the shrubbery.
- Trim tree branches away from the roof.
- Add potted plants by the entranceway for a quick touch of color.
- Paint the front door if needed.
- Remove spider webs and ants from around the doorway.
#2 Clean the Rooms
You want the rooms to shine, so hire professional cleaners if you need help.
- Vacuum carpets and steam clean if necessary.
- Polish wood floors, tables, and bookcases.
- Clean grout on tile floors.
- Wash windows inside and out.
- Clean the oven and burners.
- Clean the bathrooms so that they sparkle.
#3 Remove Clutter
Let your visitors imagine that they are living in your home by removing clutter.
- Clear everything off your kitchen countertops.
- Put toys away.
- Remove unnecessary furniture from a cramped room.
#4 Control Odors
Address unpleasant odors at the source while avoiding strong deodorizers to cover them up.
- Keep the cat litter box clean.
- Put stinky sneakers outside.
- Bake cookies and let the smell waft through the rooms.
- Be careful about using air fresheners, which can signal a problem with the home.
#5 Turn on the Lights
Make the environment light and bright.
- Turn the lights on in every room, including closets.
- Open the blinds and let the sunshine in.
- Do not turn the electricity off in vacant homes. Leave it connected until after the showings, home inspection, and appraisal.
#6 Leave the Home During Showings
Most people don’t want the seller to point out the things they like best about the home. When a real estate agent accompanies the buyers, leave the property.
- Visitors stay longer if the owner isn’t there.
- Potential buyers may hesitate to open closets if the owner is present.
- Buyers tend to whisper to each other when the owner is around, leaving their real estate agent out of the conversation. This isolation makes it more difficult for the agent to address their concerns and close the deal.
Closing Points
A home is the most expensive purchase many people make over their lifetime. So, maximize your profits when selling your home by increasing the curb appeal, inside and out.
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