Home Seller Tips

By Cindy Shaft

When you sell your home, the objective is to sell as quickly as possible for a price you are comfortable with. Assuming a realtor who is representing you is representing you and looking out for your best interests, the most important single thing you can do is to have your home in good "showing condition." It's a well known fact the better your home "shows" the higher price you are likely to achieve, an more likely it will sell. Having it show well, will probably add thousands or dollars to your sales price. With today's market as it is, it is more important than ever to properly prepare your home for sale and with a listing agent that cares.

You can enhance your chances of a fast sale at top dollar by performing the items below. Even when you spend a little money preparing your home for sale, it is likely that you will recoup your money many times over.

• Trim up all shrubs and landscaping outside, sweep all walkways, patios, decks and mow and green up grass with fertilizer. Pick up tools, kids toys etc. on lawn. Be especially thorough with your front yard, curb appeal can make a difference on how fast your home sells.
• "Lighten and brighten" every room inside. Each room should be clean of clutter, well lighted and and free of odors. Open window shades and or drapes to brighten the room. Keep toys, shoes and clothes off floor.
• If your home is cluttered with furniture, consider removing some to add more space. The "sparsely furnished" look you see in magazines is a proven sales aid. Remove excessive personal items too. It will make easier for your buyer to visualize himself or herself living in your home with their own things.
• If the carpet in your home is soiled, have it steamed clean. If interior painting shows dirt or wear, consider repainting (or at least touch up painting to most affected areas.)
• Bathrooms should be kept especially clean. Set out show towels and bath products to give them the model home look.
• Keep the kitchen especially clean, with no dirty dishes or food odors. Have on the dining table a centerpiece such as flowers (real or fake.)
• Make sure all furniture is dusted, all windows are clean and wastebaskets emptied.
• When your home is shown turn off the television. Soft background music is okay.
• Keep pets out of the way (preferably outside or in the garage. Make sure the pets area is clean and odor free.

While your property is on the market, it is likely you will encounter prospect buyers and their real estate agents. While it is important to be nice, do not disclose any personal information such as your urgency to sell. You want to get the most money for your home.

E-mail me about helping you sell your home.

More Articles