After being in real estate for eleven years I have figured out which things are important to do when you're trying to sell a house. These I figure are the top ten.
- Spiff up the outside. Make sure it's clear of clutter and neat. Put some kind of decorative touch at the entry door. Remember if you can't get them in the house first they won't buy it.
- Always make sure to clean everything including the windows and work to keep it that way right until the day of closing. Deals can fall through and then the house may have to be shown again.
- Clear clutter - if necessary store your overabundance somewhere else.
- Paint wherever it looks worn and make sure all walls are painted in neutral colors. Bold and bright colors tend to distract the buyer's attention from your home's selling points.
- Fix anything that needs repair. Deferred maintenance makes people think the house has been neglected.
- Limit the number of family pictures and memorabilia. You want people to imagine the house as their home.
- Stage your home. If you're not good at it have a friend help or even hire a professional. It can make all the difference in the world.
- Replace burnt out bulbs in light fixtures. Bright homes appear to be warm and inviting.
- Clean out and organize closets, cupboards and drawers, people will look in them.
- Keep pet odors to a minimum, clean kitty litter often and store in basement or utility room.
Finally and this may be the most important - Get yourself a good real estate agent!! Even I did that. It's much easier for someone else to sell your home than yourself. They're not emotionally invested, they're working for you, they're experts and this is how they make their living. Find someone you feel comfortable with and you trust.
