One of the first things to do before putting your house on the market is prepare your house for sale. Your house needs to be shown off in its best light to maximize your earning potential. Tour your house with the eye of a buyer - what works, what doesn't work. To get an idea of how beneficial home staging is, visit our Photo Gallery.
Curb Appeal Does your house have curb appeal? What can be done to draw the buyer in? Would a bit of touch-up paint add dollars to the sale? What about the garden?
First impressions count. Be sure that the lawn is mowed, raked and neatly edged. Prune trees and bushes. If your garden is not currently in bloom add colorful annuals to the front on your house. These steps will make a big difference in curb appeal and will add dollars to your house's final selling price!
Welcome Home Does your house say "Welcome home" to a buyer? Looking through the eyes of a buyer, what changes will enhance sales appeal?
Eliminate anything that gives the appearance of clutter. Countertops should be free and clear. Knickknacks, souvenirs, family photos, refrigerator artwork should be removed. By "de-personalizing" the house buyers can imagine it as their home.
Closets and cupboards should appear large and roomy. Make a donation to a local charity or store belongings at a friend's or family member's home.
Review your home room-by-room. Should any furniture be removed to make a cramped space feel larger? Do any rooms need new paint or carpet? Be sure to polish fixtures and clean windows throughout your house. These are improvements that can easily be made to promote the sale of your house.
Setting the Stage Before the first buyer walks in your door, set the stage to engage the buyers senses. Lighting is critical. Draw back curtains, open blinds, change light bulbs and add lighting where needed to welcome the buyer. Air fresheners are a great way to ensure a pleasing aroma emanates from every room.