Education for Sellers

How Should I Prepare My Home To Sell

First, it's important to stop thinking of your house as "your home" and view it as a hot commodity you want to sell. You must emotionally detach yourself from it and make an honest evaluation of it. How should it really look?

The appearance and condition of a house play a bigger part in homes sales than most people may think. Today, buyers try to discount the price if a home needs work, if they decide to buy it at all.

Cost-effective improvements are best. For example, paint is the least expensive improvement you can make. Neutral colors are more appealing to a buyer who's trying to picture his or her furniture and decor in the home. It's the same with floors; stick with neutral colors.

Frankly, a lot of what needs to be done, doesn't cost much, but time. For example, take time to remove excess personal possessions. De-clutter the home of unnecessary items so that buyers can imagine themselves living there. Bathrooms and kitchen countertops should be free of almost everything. Store things away in plastic bins or in cabinets.

Make any needed repairs to defects in your house. Keep the interior clean. Windows should shine. Carpets should be well-vacuumed. Floors should be well-mopped.

Lastly, remember that first impressions are lasting impressions. The "curb appeal" of your house is very important. A neat, clean yard is not an expensive investment. A front door with a fresh coat of paint would also be appealing. Your goal is to convey to buyers the impression that your home is well-maintained.

Next: Pricing Your House The Right Way