Seller’s Etiquette
Here are a few tips to help you and your home make a great impression on potential buyers.
Staging
Stage your home so that potential buyers can easily envision themselves living there. Some key places to start are:
-Closets: Remove as much as possible from your closets. Consider an off-site storage facility for out of season or extra bulky items
-Decor: Paint all walls a light neutral color and keep family photos and personal mementos to a minimum
-Furniture: Make sure the pieces in each room meet the function of the space and remove anything that is in the way or makes the room feel crowded
Showings
Be prepared for showings to happen at any time. In the mornings make all beds, open the blinds, turn on lights, wipe down counters, and set the thermostat appropriately in the event that someone wants to come see your house while you are out for the day. If you are usually home during the day, be prepared to leave giving potential buyers plenty of time to tour the home and consider if it’s a good fit for them.
Updates
Make small updates that add the most value for the money spent. Buyers want a move-in ready home, so make updates like painting the house, replacing worn out carpet, painting cabinets, and updating light fixtures.
Price to Sell
The first two weeks are the most important when selling your home. Price your home to sell, not to lower the price later. Take into consideration repairs that may influence how much your home is worth or how much a buyer is ready to pay.
Pets
We all love our pets, but potential buyers might not find them as lovable as we do. Have a secure place for your pets to be during a showing and move any pet beds or toys into that space as well. Empty litter boxes frequently and move them to the garage. Use a fabric freshener on any upholstery before you leave too so that the house doens’t smell like your lovable fido.
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