Spring has sprung and if you are planning on putting your house on the market, now is the time to get it ready to sell. Houses that are priced right and in good condition are what people are looking for, and with the large inventory of homes for sale, buyers have their choice and are looking for the best.
Below are steps a homeowner should follow to make their homes look their best and ensure that they get the best price. The staging process requires objective assessment and a willingness to repair, paint, edit, clean and re-arrange from the front curb to the back fence of the house.
The first impression starts outside and speaks volumes about what is on the inside, making the buyer want to come in. You will want to make outside repairs, have the lawn freshly mowed, and prune bushes and trees. Bring your front door to life with a fresh coat of paint and a spring wreath. Set planters near the door and plant some colorful annuals in the front yard.
Next, go through your home as a potential buyer. Look for things that you never got around to fixing. Many small nuisances give the impression that a house needs a decent amount of work.
Nothing lifts the energy of a home as instantly as a fresh coat of paint. Paint your home in light warm colors that appeal to a majority of buyers.
Remember, you are selling space; your home is not a furniture showroom. If you plan on giving away furniture before you move, do it now. If pieces are important to you, consider moving them to a storage unit. When a potential buyer looks at your home, there should be enough open space for them to visualize their things in the room.
You will want to pack away all but a few personal items and reduce the number of accessories and knick-knacks, especially personal photos. You will also want to clear clutter from the garage, closets, and bedrooms. Worn bedspreads, shams, mats, towels and shower curtains should be replaced.
Thoroughly clean the entire home including carpets, draperies, blinds, and windows. Bathrooms should have a spa feeling and kitchens should be immaculate. Mustiness, smoke, dampness, strong food or pet odors are instant turn-offs.
Now, you are ready to showcase your home. A home looks warm and welcoming with great light. You may need to purchase up-lights or lamps. Position furniture to enhance your home’s features, add a few inexpensive accessories and re-hang a few pictures. Add color to your rooms with throw pillows and blankets, bowls of fruit, fresh or good quality silk flowers, green plants or trees.
The keys to selling your home are preparation and presentation. Start your preparation now and present your home in the best possible light and your home will ultimately garner top dollar when you put it on the market.
Sue Motto Burky is a Professional Home Stager and the owner of Redesign EXPRESS. If you would like more information staging, you can call 847-463-6115 or go to www.RedesignExpress.com.
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