Property Preparation
You want to sell your property, and you want to get the most for it you can. There are some simple tips that will help you attract a bid and ease the bidding process. You first need to place yourself in the position of the person who will be viewing your property. Remember you probably won’t be there for the showing.
You want to sell your property, and you want to get the most for it you can. There are some simple tips that will help you attract a bid and ease the bidding process. You first need to place yourself in the position of the person who will be viewing your property. Remember you probably won’t be there for the showing.
Things that are important or have sentimental value to you will not necessarily be of value to the viewer of your space and frankly your presence can hurt your space’s attractiveness to the viewer. You wouldn’t want to be in a property with the owners hovering over your shoulder talking about how they picked out the carpet or fixed a light. Viewers of a property need to be conscious of the tangible benefits of that space. Because a great deal of emotion is tied to a space, it is impossible for the owner to be objective. If you plan on being there for the showing and have an agent, reconsider whether you should participate in the property staging process.
Assuming you aren’t going to be there in the property at the time of showing, try to imagine viewing your space as a stranger. Is it neat and tidy? Does it have a pleasant smell? Is it open and inviting? Is it brightly lit? Are there obvious small repairs that could be done? Maybe you’ve noticed the words neat and tidy several times. A perception of uncleanness is an immediate turnoff to viewers of your space.
If you give your space a thorough cleaning and paint it with a fresh coat you will make a good impression. Choose neutral colors with paint. Shampoo any carpets and wax hardwood floors. You want your space to be perceived as ready to move in. It’s also time to clear out your storage areas and unnecessary clutter. Property viewers are going to see every part of your space so there are no hiding places for clutter.
Lighting is important. You should consider purchasing a few inexpensive halogen lights for darker areas of your house. Remember a space should look clean, bright and uncluttered. Although it may be a lot of work, these things will help tremendously in the sale of your property.
Interior
- Does the space look clean and smell fresh ?
- What needs to be done to make it more appealing?
- Does the entryway or foyer need paint?
- Is the floor covering in entryway in need of repair?
- Does the carpeting need cleaning?
- Are there scuff marks or fingerprints on walls?
- Do closet doors open and close easily?
- Are windows clean?
- Are plumbing fixtures polished?
- Are closets neat, organized, clutter-free?
- Do lights and switches require repair?
- Are leaky faucets repaired?
- Are doorknobs tight and working?
Exterior
- Does the property have curb appeal?
- What needs to be done to give it more appeal?
- Does exterior require a new coat of paint?
- Are light fixtures operating properly?
- Are windows clean and unbroken (not cracked)?
- Is there trash or debris that requires pickup?
- Have grass and weeds been removed from walks?
- Do door and windows open and close easily?