5 fast and easy ways to increase demand (and ultimately value!) for your home before listing
One of the most important roles we play as real estate advisors is guiding our clients on the home improvements that will earn them the biggest return on their investment! This calculation is part art, part science because the real estate market is constantly changing. Over the years, we have landed on 5 key (and simple) improvements that we know attract more buyers once your home is on the market. As listing agents who also work with buyers, we know exactly how they think! They need to easily picture living life in the homes they are considering. Our job is to create the backdrop of that vision. The rest of the math is simple: the more buyers we attract, the higher the home’s sales price will go.
So, if you’re thinking about selling your home…but you’re on the fence about the prep work, it’s your lucky day! We’re giving away all of our tried and true secrets right here!
Update 1: A decluttered home is a much larger-looking home
Our number one tip, and a must for every seller! Start by clearing all surfaces (with the exception of maybe one or two decorative items). Open, clean surfaces give the perception of more space and size, especially in your listing photos (otherwise known as your home’s first impression!). Next, make sure floors are clear of clutter. If you have quite a few things to put away, rent a storage unit for a few weeks! Trust us, it’s worth going the extra mile because an uncluttered room always looks larger. And lastly: don’t forget the closets. Remove items until they look about 50% full. This is the best way to showcase the storage your home offers, which is always a hot button for buyers.
Update 2: A fresh coat of paint will completely transform a room—and even an entire home!
Paint is the fastest, most cost-effective way to breathe new life into a home! We recommend painting every surface (walls, ceiling and trim) in a neutral color carried throughout your home to maximize that “new house” look buyers want. Neutral colors help create the blank canvas buyers are looking for, and we have a few well-reviewed colors we love to share with our sellers! Professionally painting a whole house can get costly, but paying someone who knows how to paint the older plaster walls common in our areas is especially worth it!
Update 3: Make sure your curb appeal shines through
Time and again, we approach a fantastic listing on a lovely street…but instead of falling in love with the beautiful facade and location, buyers will focus on a rusty railing or a shutter in need of repair. These are easy fixes – don’t make this mistake! Survey your home’s exterior (particularly the front!) and go ahead and update that old storm door or railing. When buyers see even one small area of disrepair, they start to wonder about the condition of the entire home. Areas to critically consider revamping include shutters, storm doors, railings, and the front and/or storm door. Also, don’t underestimate the power of a few pretty, colorful planters. Little touches like this instantly add a cozy and homey vibe right off the bat.
Update 4: Updated lighting is a game changer
When preparing a home to sell, we are going for a nondescript, yet updated look. If your light fixtures are old or outdated, consider replacing them for a fresher, more modern look. The most important locations to consider are the foyer and dining room, as the light fixture is a focal point in these areas. We have a few go-to light fixtures under $100 that we recommend to our clients all the time! There are great low-cost, high-impact options on Amazon, Wayfair and other easy-ship, online retailers.
Update 5: Fresh and clean is a MUST
After your home is clear of clutter, and nipped/tucked, hire a professional cleaning service that offers move-in/move-out-style packages. With this level of service, every surface of your home will be spotless including the windows, cabinet faces and appliances – your home will truly sparkle and shine. We have had buyers in the past love a home, but walk away because it was messy and dirty. A clean home is a fast and easy way to show buyers how well you have cared for your property over the years.
In summary
While many of our recommendations are quick, inexpensive and generally easy, they will make a huge impact on your home’s appeal to today’s buyers, and ultimately your sales price! As always, please reach out anytime if you’re considering a sale but are not sure where to begin. It’s never too early to start planning and we would love to help you make the most of this fantastic market!
