Preparing Your Home To Sell

There are many factors that come into play when selling a home. Many will depend on the real estate market in your area. If it is a buyer's market (more homes for sale and fewer buyers), it could take months to sell a home. In a buyer's market it's not uncommon for homes to stay on the market for 6 months or even a year. But in a seller's market (fewer homes for sale and more buyers), homes will sell in a matter of days or a couple of weeks. A seller's market tends to bring higher sale prices also. Following the steps below can increase the chances of your home selling quickly.

Curb Appeal:
The first thing a buyer will see is the front of your home. It's at this point the potential buyer will decide if they want to take a look inside. Try to remove items such as kids toys, lawn equipment and debris from the driveway and the path to your front door. You might consider adding some flowers and plants in the front also. Remember, you are setting the tone for the rest of the showing.

Spread Things Out:
The more space you can create the better. If you have furniture (sofas and love seats, etc.) in the middle of a room, try moving them against the walls. This will make each room look and feel larger.

Cleanliness:
Make sure you vacuum the entire home and clean the bathrooms, windows, and all the fixtures. Replace any caulking in the bathtubs or shower stalls that is missing or has mildew.

Spacious Closet:
The more space you can create the bigger your closet will feel. If you have a walk-in closet, organize the shoes so there is a clear pathway through to the clothes.

Brightness Is Important:
Open all curtains and blinds in each room and replace all light fixtures with new bulbs.

Protecting Your Valuables:
If you have any valuables you are concerned about, please remove them from the house or at least from plain site. If you need something secure, you might be able to rent a safety-deposit box from your local bank or leave the items with friends or family.

Odors:
If you have pets or smoke in the home, there will be an odor. Start by asking family and friends if they think you have any odors that should be corrected. This will give you a good idea of where you need to start. There are many different products on the market which can help remove these; just give it your best effort.

Inviting Odors:
If you are having an open house or know when your home will be shown, consider baking a pie, running potpourri, and add odor protectors in the bathrooms.

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