Selling a home is a significant milestone in anyone's life. Whether you're relocating for a new job, upgrading to a larger space, or downsizing for retirement, preparing your home for sale is a crucial step in the process. It can be a daunting task, but with the right strategies and the right team in place, you can make your property stand out in the competitive real estate market. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the key aspects of prepping your home for sale and the unique benefits of doing so. Before we start, let me point out the VERY FIRST thing you should do if you're thinking about selling is to speak with your Realtor. They will be able to sit down with you in order to come up with a strategic plan for the best home sale process possible. Now, let's get into it.....
1. Declutter and Depersonalize:
Start by decluttering your space. Remove excess items, personal photographs, and knick-knacks. This creates a more neutral canvas for potential buyers to envision their life in the space. A tidy, open, and depersonalized home allows buyers to picture themselves living there. I recommend almost completely clearing off any surfaces like counter tops and tables.
2. Repairs and Maintenance:
Address any necessary repairs and maintenance tasks. Fix leaky faucets, squeaky doors, and any other issues that might deter buyers. A well-maintained home suggests that it has been cared for and is ready for occupancy.
3. Enhance Curb Appeal:
The exterior of your home is the first thing buyers see. Invest time in enhancing your curb appeal by grooming your lawn, planting flowers, and giving your front door a fresh coat of paint. It may be a good time to update your outdoor lighting and door hardware. A beautiful exterior creates a positive first impression.
4. Minor Updates:
You'd be amazed by how much you can update your space by just focusing on the hardware and lighting fixtures. Looks at your kitchen cabinet pulls and bathroom vanity hardware. Updating it with more modern hardware is a cheap and easy way for a quick refresh. Similarly, lighting can make a huge difference. Swap out dated chandeliers and overhead lighting for modern fixtures. If you need help picking appropriate fixtures, consult your Realtor first!
5. Staging Your Space:
Consider professional staging to make your home look its best. Staging can help highlight your home's best features and create an emotional connection with potential buyers. According to the National Association of Realtors, staging is a critical element in the home-selling process. Here are some interested statistics around staging your home:
- Staged homes sell 88% faster, on average, compared to non-staged properties.
- On average, staged homes command a 20% higher price tag
- 2023 Profile of Home Staging said 81% of buyers’ agents surveyed found "staging a home made it easier for a buyer to visualize the property as a future home"
- 48% of sellers’ agents said staging “decreased a property’s time on the market"
By following these steps and taking advantage of the power of staging, you'll be well on your way to prepping your home for a successful sale. Remember, the goal is to make your property stand out, attract more buyers, and maximize your home's value.
If you need a little extra help getting your home ready for the market check out Compass Concierge- an amazing program offered only my Compass agents!
If you're thinking about selling your home reach out to me for a free consultation! Email molly.reed@compass.com or call (518) 496-5674
Wondering what happens after your home goes on the market? Click here to read "Selling Your Home? Here are Your Marketing Must Haves"