Preparing Your Property to Sell for Top Dollar

As spring approaches, so does the traditionally busy season for real estate. Preparing to put your home on the market for top dollar is a project somewhere between spring cleaning and a home improvement show. If you are considering listing your home, work with your real estate agent to come up with a punch list specific to your property. There are, however, a few general tips that apply to nearly every home.

Ruthlessly Declutter

Purging is the name of the game, especially in the main living area, kitchen, master bedroom and bath, and the front of the home. Start early in this process as decluttering is THAT important and can be very time-consuming. Sort things into trash, donations, recycle, and move (which you can pack and store for the listing period). It is fine to store boxes and furniture in the garage.

Depersonalize your home

By taking down family photos and personal collections, potential buyers can focus on the home’s structural elements and better envision themselves in the home.

Replace old light fixtures

In her article, “How to Get Your house Ready to Sell in 30 Days,” HomeLight.com author Presley Attardo recommends opting for transitional design. Consider exterior lights as well for a fabulous first impression.

Update dated hardware

Changing up hardware such as knobs, drawer pulls, door handles, hinges, and even towel racks can go a long way toward updating a space. Focus on the key areas such as kitchen, master suite, and living areas.

Freshen up the paint

Attardo suggests choosing paint color that is two shades lighter or darker than your flooring. Again, a more neutral palette will appeal to more buyers and they won’t see a bright or unique color that they have to “fix.”

Tackle repairs

This is where it is imperative to consult with your real estate agent. Should you fill picture holes and lubricate squeaky hinges? Yes. But should you replace your HVAC or resurface your pool? That depends on many factors—for example: how fast you want to sell, what the market is doing, and how much you hope to sell for. Your agent can guide you regarding which investments are worth the payoff.

Stage your home

These days, it is often expected by buyers that homes will be staged. According to HomeLight’s recent Top Agent Insights Report, more than 67% of agents agree that staging increases the sale price of a home. It is worth the investment to have a professional stager take on this part of the preparation. They have the experience and resources to get the most return for your money.

Enhance your curb appeal

First impressions are critical in the home selling process. Make your property appealing by removing any weeds, working to get your lawn green, sprucing up the bark/mulch, power washing the driveway and walkways, having windows washed, and adding pops of color with flowers and plants. Take it a step further with a new mat and a fresh coat of paint on the front door.

Play up the positive

Each property has unique positive attributes to play up as well as issues to consider. In order to price your property to sell for top dollar, you will need to invest time and money to prepare it for market. Starting early in the process of purging and attending to fixes will save undo stress down the line. Even if you are thinking you won’t sell for 2 to 6 months, meet with your realtor early to strategize a plan. 

 

Debbie Austin is a realtor associate with Keller Williams, Roseville and has been helping clients buy and sell property in the area for 16 years. If you have a specific real estate question you wish to see addressed, contact Debbie at debbieaustin@kw.com or debbieaustingroup.com.