Nothing pays dividends to sellers of a home quite like elbow grease. We say this to every owner we meet when discussing the sale of their home. I want to offer a few tips to use throughout the house while preparing your home for the market. A few commonsense enhancements can help you achieve a faster, more profitable sale!
We have a full checklist available and years of experience and advice for you when you are ready to sell, but let’s start right out front.
Landscaping is likely the most important way to increase your curb appeal, and failure to mow the lawn, or pay attention to weeds, dead or overgrown plants, is the fastest way to turn a Buyer off. Supplement your landscaping efforts with a few hanging or potted plants by the front door.
Beyond yardwork, here are a few inexpensive ways to improve your home’s curb appeal:
The Doorknob: If you have an original doorknob on an old house, clean and polish it. If it’s beyond repair, or doesn’t match the style of your home, replace it.
The Windows: Dirty screens are unsightly and easy to remedy. They also reduce the amount of light entering a room. Clean them, or replace them if necessary.
Lighting: Ensure a porch light has a working bulb of appropriate wattage. Bare bulbs are harsh; install a cover. LED in-ground lighting can be a cheap way of illuminating a path.
Painting: It may not make sense to repaint the entire exterior of your home, but painting the accents – the trim, shutters, even the front door – can make a dramatic difference to your entrance.
The Details: Upgrade your house numbers. Choose a design that complements the style of your home and make sure they are visible from the street. Repaint or replace your mailbox. Put out a clean welcome mat. Make sure your doorbell works.
Coming soon, basics on the interior. Have any specific questions about how to prepare your home for sale? Shoot us one in the comments, or email us!
Posted by Paul Walsh
