Time to Sell

Most homeowners choose the timing when they are considering selling their present home. Some do not have a choice either due to a transfer to another city, purchase of another home, or perhaps health issues or death of the owner. 

Regardless of the circumstance, there are some critically important facets to selling a home and many begin days and weeks before the home is placed on the market. Here are some facts to consider:

CURB APPEAL:

  Although many potential Buyers may view photos of your home online or in the marketing materials, many will also develop an interest by driving past the property. This may be your first and only chance to make a good first impression, and the exterior of the home and condition of the yard will be a huge factor. Here are some suggestions:

• Keep the lawn looking lush and manicured at all times
• Be sure trees, shrubs and bushes are trimmed and appropriate for the property - not blocking important features of the home.
• Sidewalks need to be clean, not cracked or elevated at the seams and steps need to be in good repair.
• Showing clients will have a few minutes to stand on your porch prior to entry, be sure the door is fresh and clean looking, no dust on the mailbox or side light fixtures, side glass is clean, the doorbell is functional.
• It may be appropriate - season permitting - to have potted plants sitting on the porch for a splash of color.
• Remove clutter from the front yard - toys, overdone yard ornaments, etc.
• Winter - be sure the walks and driveway are clear.
• Fall - keep the leaves raked and flowerbeds well-kept.

THE ENTRY IMPRESSION:

• Make an effort to have all the best lighting turned on and drapes and shades open for a bright and airy look.
• Be aware of any lingering odors that might offend - a neutral air cleaner might help, but no overly scented candles or sprays that might trigger allergic reactions.
• Keep furniture sparse at the entry point to eliminate a cluttered, cramped feeling early in the visit.
• Soft background music might be appropriate - light classical, easy listening, etc.
• Be sure pets are confined - not every potential buyer loves cats or dogs.

STAGING:

• A popular expression today in home sales is to be sure the property is "staged" tastefully. This means that the furnishings and accessories in each room are a appropriate in scale and number to best compliment the architectural features of the room.
• Remove clutter - anything that tends to be too busy or overdone should be removed and stored. Items that are not generally compatible with the function of the room should be removed - as an example, children's toys in the dining room, etc.
• Remove dead or dying plants and replace with fresh flowers.
• Put your good china on the dining room table in place settings as though you were expecting guests.
• Arrange the furniture to highlight the focal point of the room - fireplace, bookcases, television and be creative in their arrangement. Do not place everything along the walls but "float" some of the larger pieces in the center of the room.
• The kitchen is an important room for Buyers - remove excessive items on the countertops to emphasize the amount of space available for cooking and serving. Remove magnets and artwork from the refrigerator door and sides.
• Place fresh linens on all beds and invest in matching throws and pillows to give a hotel room appearance.
• Remove personal photos - buyers are trying to picture themselves in this home.
• Conceal all valuable items - jewelry, cash, etc. - no need to tempt someone or risk a misunderstanding over an item you think might have disappeared.

CLEANLINESS:

• Be sure every surface is clean - windows washed, carpet is clean and vacuumed, stains removed (professional cleaning may be a good investment), countertops and appliances are spotless as well as all bathrooms.
• Remove or conceal litter boxes and pet dishes during showings.
• Closets should have only the season-appropriate clothes in them to display a feeling of space - all other items should be stored.
• Basements and garages need to be as neat as the rest of the house - scrub and/or paint the floors, put excess items into storage. A storage unit might be a great investment during the showing period and then move the items to the new location when the sale is completed.
• Wax all wood surfaces - cabinet fronts, bookcases, bannisters, stair treads, furniture - make the place shine.
• Be sure to wipe down baseboards and doors - remove dust and handprints.

CARDINAL RULE FOR SHOWINGS:

• Unless you are selling the home by owner - be sure and leave the property during any showings.
• Potential buyers will spend less time in a room or home if the owner is present, and they will take less time to notice all the features of the home.
• Turn on all the best lighting - even during the daytime hours.
• No dishes in the sink or dishwasher.
• No dirty laundry in sight.
• Be sure the inside air is fresh and clean.

JUST KEEP IN MIND - MOST BUYERS WILL LOOK AT MORE THAN ONE HOME BEFORE MAKING A BUYING DECISION. YOU WANT YOUR PROPERTY TO STAND OUT IN THEIR MINDS AS THE BEST THEY SAW AND MAKE THEM WANT TO WRITE AN OFFER.