Tips to create the vision "inside & out” of your home
It is essential to realize that for most buyers purchasing a home IS an emotional experience and that your house will sell quicker and for more money if you just expend a little time, money and imagination. Contrary to popular belief no home is perfect.
All of them have some shortcomings - even the most expensive ones. With this in mind, try to picture your home with a critical eye. For after all, this is how the buyers will be viewing your pride and joy as they walk through.
Interior
Cleaning & Organizing
This is perhaps the most important "improvement" of all and costs next to nothing. Windows must sparkle inside and out, and closets and cupboards should be orderly and clutter free. Rugs should be shampooed and floors polished. This is the time to have that garage sale you have been putting off. Eliminate overcrowded rooms by disposing of large bulky furniture and bric-a-brac. Try to create the illusion of spaciousness in your rooms. Appliances should be cleaned inside and out and be in good working order. Keep in mind that the buyer's home inspector will be testing them.
Painting
Paint and freshen your rooms with colors that are in vogue. "Dated" colours quite simply, date your home and make it appear neglected even if it isn't. Colours that are too shocking are not desired either. You don't want your master bedroom with purple trim and doors to be the focal point of the conversation.
Repairing
All those minor flaws that you thought would fix themselves haven't. Don't count on the buyers to overlook these tiny imperfections - they won't. In fact, they'll be looking for a "break" in the price because of it. Those doors and windows that stick, the leaky faucet, the unsightly caulking around the tub, the doorbell that doesn't work, the burnt-out light bulbs, the charred spot on the kitchen countertop, and doorknobs that come apart in your hand or don't lock properly if they work at all. All are a turn-off so if possible fix them.
Tasteful Artwork
Even though you may love to see this month's Playboy bunny hanging in your hallway, most people don't. Buyers that bring their children to view homes with them may be less than pleased with your artistic taste, so please put items that may be questionable away and store them for the time being
Accessorizing
Since you want your home to appeal to the broadest spectrum of buyers, adding special touches to create warmth and ambience is a definite plus. A vase of fresh cut flowers, a plateful of cookies on the kitchen counter, or books and magazines carefully displayed on the coffee table are pleasing to the eye. Rooms can be too cluttered, or too sterile. Try to be objective and create a balance between the two.
Exterior
Curb Appeal
Does your home have it? When a prospective buyer pulls up in front of your home is he/she visually impressed with what he/she sees? Remember, a buyer's first impression will determine whether he/she wants to walk through the front door or not.
Landscaping
If your yard is well landscaped and sculpted, chances are your home will fetch a higher price. Regularly water and mow your grass. Clip hedges, prune bushes, and weed. Bring colour to your garden if seasonally possible with flowering baskets and tubs of flowers. If you have one, set up your sundeck and/or patio with outdoor patio furniture. Repair any fencing that needs mending. If you have a view property make sure that any greenery is trimmed back so that the full impact of your view is not impaired. Add a little fertilizer to your lawn for instant growth of fresh green shoots.
Front Door & Entry
This is the feature of your home that the buyer sees first, so extra attention here is essential. Make it welcoming by purchasing a new doormat and mailbox. Polish the brass doorknocker until it gleams or set out pots of geraniums. A flower wreath on the door of if you have a porch, a cedar bench to sit on would be a nice touch. Most importantly, and if needed, repaint or re-stain your door.
Outside Cleaning
Scrub or power wash away all traces of moss, mildew or algae. Tile siding on your home, the cement brick walkways, the roof or the sun deck may need this attention. Green slime on the outside of your house may give the appearance that it has been neglected. Clean and repair- any dripping gutters. Power wash any dirt and grime from car pads and driveways. Repair cracks and potholes.
Pools & Hot Tubs
Keep your pool and hot tub covers off if possible. A clean clear swimming pool or a steaming and bubbling hot tub can look irresistibly inviting.
Garage
Try to make your garage neat and orderly. Discard virtually everything in the garage that hasn't been used in years.
The longer a house is on the market, the less likely you will receive a high offer. With a little time and TLC, you can maximize your profits. To learn more contact Dean Wegman of Royal LePage Westside by clicking here.
