How to Prepare Your Home to SELL!

We know that in the next few months is when owners start thinking of to put their homes on the market.

Clients need to know the basics for listing their house on the market and it is up to us to provide that information to them. Teach the basics right from the start, during the presentation so they know what to expect.

Remember some of the sellers where buyers during the time when a house sold in one day if not hours. They haven't been though a market like this, where it may take months to sell and how it shows in comparison to the others on the market, counts so much. Even some realtors haven't experienced this type of market. Let's give them the basics to get their home sold and at the best price.

1) Setting the Price. First you need information to price your home for the market that you are in. Agents can provide you with "Market Analysis" for free. This shows you how your property compares to others similar to yours, that have sold recently plus that are available now. Also have an agent take you out to view homes currently on the market so you can how yours will compare in price and location.

2) Don't Do Major Remodeling.Items such as a new roof will not pay you back what you have spent. It never shows up in the price difference when sold. You would be wiser to put that money into repairs and simple up dates. Make sure if your roof is bad that the repairs are done because buyers will require it. Simple repairs like screens replaced or a cracked window fixed will improve to appearance of the house.

3) Making a First Impression
When potential buyers pull up in the front of the house, you need to want them to come in. Can't sell a house if they aren't interested in coming inside! Curb appeal starts with the lawn which should be trimmed and watered. The rest of the landscaping should also show that it is maintained. As for the house it self, do not let it show wear and tear, such as peeling paint, cracks on the foundation, loose shingles or stucco. Fix these before putting it on the market. Now stand back and assess how the house will look to others, are the windows clean, front door has a new coat of paint, the exterior is free of leaves and it is welcoming. Don't forget a few flowers in the flower beds for which ever season you will be selling in. This show that you love and care about the house.

4) Cleaning a Home to Sell
O.K. here is where you start to get ready to move. DECLUTTER your home!! First get rid of everything that you don't want to move into your new home. Take each room one at a time and declutter, clean closets, wash -- walls, door trim, base boards, ceiling fans and if you have a color that only you love, neutralize it. You can paint that color in your new home but you want to appeal to as many buyers as possible. Make sure to go thought the house before you leave each day or before a showing to pick up anything left out. Others don't want to see your wet towel or your tooth brush. They really want to think "no one lives here". This is even more important if you own a pet, the less seen the better, no hair, water, food, litter box or smells. KEEP IT CLEAN! Till you have it sold and closed. Some sellers invest in a cleaning service twice a month for all the extras, like windows, carpets and keeping on top of everything.

5) Keep it Light and Bright
During the day have all the blinds open, curtains pulled back and the lights on. Light and bright sells houses! You can do almost the same effect in the evening by adding extra lighting. Placing fresh flowers in the house adds a pleasant scent for the buyers and is inviting.

6) Last Go Away!
Buyers and their agents do not feel free to look or talk about your home, with you there. They go though your house quicker because they are uncomfortable. Make yourself scarce and take the kids and pets with you. You'll be glad you did.