My clients just got a great price for their condo in Port Moody, and they have themselves to thank!
When we spoke about listing their property for sale, we talked about de-cluttering and de-personalizing the suite, so it would show well for our upcoming open houses.
I loaned my Sellers 10 plastic rubbermaid boxes, and told them their home would hit the market in two weeks. With that motivation, they began the task of removing knick knacks and kids toys, doing painting touch ups, painting the fireplace surround (which was a mismatched color to the rest of the room) and cleaning the home, top to bottom. The reward was several interested parties bidding on their home, and a sale price they are happy with.
Keep these tips in mind when you're listing your home for sale:
1. Paint is the least-expensive renovation material you can buy. Nothing freshens a home like new paint. Is yours chipping, marked, dirty or outdated? A good paint job is well worth the time (to do it yourself) or money (to get a professional) you put into it.
2. No dirt is more gross than someone else's dirt. Keep first impressions positive by cleaning your home thoroughly for your showings, and trying to keep it that way throughout the sales process. If you have carpeting, consider getting the floors professionally cleaned--or consider replacing the carpets with hardwood or laminate. It will pay dividends.
3. As mentioned above, decluttering is very important. Take personal photos of your family down and create a warm atmosphere that will make potential Buyers imagine themselves as the new owners of the home. Go to a pre-sale showhome to get an idea of how local developers get buyers to fall in love with the thought of living in a space.....that doesn't even exist yet!
4. Stage your home. Consider getting a few new pillows, throws, and other coordinated accessories that compliment your various rooms. Less is more.
5. Smell is important, too! If you have pets or smelly teenagers, consider using candles, a plug-in scent warmer, or baking cookies prior to the open house.
6. Curb appeal can mean the difference between a Buyer simply driving by and an actual visitt. If you are selling a house, show prospective Buyers that it has been well cared for. Consider tidying the garden, powerwashing the concrete, putting out flowers (if it's not snowing!), pruning overgrown trees, and making the home look as good as it can. Selling your home is a numbers game--you want as many people to want to see the home as possible to result in a quick sale.
Thinking of selling your home soon? Give me a call!
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