Spring is the high season for real estate, and if you are planning to sell your house during this time, it’s essential to prepare it well before putting it on the market. Here are some tips to help you get your house ready for potential buyers:
First Impression: As the saying goes, “you never get a second chance to make a first impression.” The first thing that potential buyers will see is the front yard, so it’s important to make sure it looks clean and well-maintained. This means ensuring that the grass is mowed, bushes are trimmed, tree branches are removed, mulch looks good, and some flowers are planted to add a pop of color. A good landscaper can help you achieve this.
Home Improvements: It’s important to make sure your home is in good condition before you put it on the market, but that doesn’t mean you should invest in cosmetic improvements that won’t increase your home’s value. In fact, some buyers may prefer to choose their own paint colors or flooring materials. If your home needs new paint, carpet, or tiles, get an estimate and either reduce the home price by that amount or offer an incentive to the buyer. This will give the buyer the opportunity to make the improvements they want, and you won’t have to spend money on unnecessary upgrades.
Tidy Up: A clean and clutter-free home will make a good impression on potential buyers. This means doing a spring cleaning and getting rid of unwanted stuff around the house. You can donate unwanted clothes, books, toys, and other items you don’t want to take with you to your new home. Make sure the house doesn’t look overcrowded with kitchenware, and avoid having a pile of clothes in your closet.
Smells Good: Bad smells can be a turnoff for potential buyers. If you smoke, have a pet, or cook with strong spices, make sure to get rid of the smell. Carpets can hold on to odors for a long time, so consider getting them professionally cleaned. You can also add air fresheners in every room and leave windows open to let in fresh air.
Lights: A well-lit home will make it feel more inviting to potential buyers. Make sure every room is well-lit, both with natural light and artificial light. Replace missing light bulbs and make sure blinds and curtains are clean. You can also tie back curtains to let in more natural light.
Pest Control: No one wants to see pests in their home, so make sure to take care of any pest problems before putting your home on the market. You can hire a pest control company to come and spray inside and outside of your home, or you can make it a DIY project. Common pests in the spring and summer include roaches, spiders, wasps, ants, and mosquitoes.
Insurance: Make sure your insurance is up to date before putting your home on the market. You will have many people coming in and out of your home, so it’s important to be covered in case of any accidents or injuries. Consider increasing your liability coverage, especially if you have a pool or other potential hazards on your property.
Start Searching for a Realtor: Finding the right realtor can make a big difference in how quickly and easily you can sell your home. Look for a realtor with experience selling homes in your area, who can provide you with references and a track record of success. Make sure you feel comfortable working with them and that they are responsive to your needs.
Preparing your house for sale can be daunting, but following these tips can help you get the best offer and stand out in the competition.