Tips to Help Sell Your Home

                                                         Tips to Help Sell Your Home

This is the first of a two part series.  This part of the series will focus on preparing your home to sale and the second part of the series will address staging the home for showings.

When preparing your home to sale the below tips should be considered:

1.  Enhance the curb appeal as first impressions are critical.  A well manicured attractive front lawn and entry are a must and really set the stage for the buyer's expectations.  If seasonal color is available add it to existing flower beds or put into decorative pots on the front porch. Be sure to sweep the front entry, wash the exterior walls and front door.  If the front door is wood and faded you may want to consider re-staining or using a wood conditioner to enhance the appearance.

2. Clean and freshen the interior.  Clean the carpets, rugs, draperies and upholstery so they appear fresh and also to eliminate lingering odors. If the paint is dull or faded due to time a fresh coat may be needed and it will go along way in making a good first impression.  Clean around all door knobs and light switches to remove finger prints and smudges.  Make sure that all lights are working even in the lamps.  Clean all of the windows on the interior and exterior of the home so the buyer will have an unobstructed view.

3. Eliminate clutter in all rooms and closets.  The buyer will be looking for good storage space so it is important to throw away or organize every area.  This purging includes the attic and garage.  If you don't have the space at your home to store removed items then you may want to pack and store off site. A home that appears spacious and reflects the appearance of plenty of space for living will be very attractive to potential buyers.

4. Do the small home repairs that you have been putting off.  Tighten loose doorknobs, sticking doors, torn screens missing light covers in closets etc. When these items are left undone the buyer may think that the home has not been well maintained.

5. The bathrooms and the kitchen must be spotless and immaculate.  They should sparkle and smell fresh at all times.  During the time your home is on the market you may want to shy away from preparing foods that have lingering odors such as fried fish, bacon, cauliflower etc.  If you would like to use an air freshener be selective as some scents are over powering a may be distractive to a buyer.  Vanilla is a scent that appeals to a large populous.

6. All of the bedrooms should look inviting.  Yes, you will need to make your bed everyday.  It may be necessary to buy a new bedspread (or have the existing one cleaned), new bed linens or some plump pillows.   

Keep in mind that when selling a home the other active listings are your immediate competition.  You will need to show your home at it's very best for potential buyers to appreciate the value.  It is easy to put yourself ahead of the competition if you follow the items listed above.

For a free in home consultation please feel free to contact me direct at 713-822-8555 or www.SellingHomesInHouston.com.

Pamela Efferson