Sometimes I'll drive by a home for sale and think "I wouldn't even step foot inside that place" or "That looks like WAY too much work"
Whether these kind of thoughts are warranted or not is beside the point. The fact is that buyers will feel this way about some homes, especially if they don't make a good first impression.
Let me tell you, some homes sell for alot less simply because there were some maintenance jobs that needed doing. At the end of the day the maintenance work would have cost less than what got shaved off the asking price in the long run.
First impressions are so important when selling. You must have your home in A1 condition before going to market.
Buyers look for every reason possible not to buy "before" they sign a contract & look for every reason possible to confirm their purchase "after" they sign a contract.
With this simple rule in mind as a seller it is important to do everything possible to give buyers as few reasons as possible not to buy.
Basic Tips
- If the front of the house needs a paint get it done
- Front doors, gates & fences must be in order
- Keep the lawn mown and the garden in check
- The front of the house is it's "face" make sure it's smiling
- Angry dogs don't help, keep them out the back if possible
- Is your letter-box falling apart? If so get a new one
- Keep blinds open - sunlight sells
- Air fresheners, buyers love nice smells
- Keep pets locked up - puppies are cute, dirty paws aren't
- 3 rooms should always be clean and tidy - Bathroom - Kitchen - lounge. These 3 rooms are where life happes
- Fix any dodgy plumbing or electrics
- Wash down the walls with sugar soap
- Get a paint job if necessary
You need to make your home an empty canvas so the buyer can "paint" their own lives onto it. The buyer needs to be able to imagine living in your home. It will be easier for them to do that when the place is looking, smelling and feeling great.
For advice selling or buying - Halliwell First National real Estate
Director - Alan Halliwell
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