There are many minor things you can do to your home to enhance its marketability. Remember, you want your home to make a great first impression to a potential buyer. Spend some time prior to placing your home on the market cleaning out storage spaces, closets, and cabinets. Remove any excess clutter from your home as well. You want the prospective buyer to remember the architectural features of the house and not the furnishings you have in it. The potential buyer needs to be able to envision their furnishings in your home.
Below is a list of things you can do to increase the value of your home:
Consider Curb Appeal: It is estimated that more than 50% of homes are sold before the buyers even get out of their cars. Stand across the street from your house and review the curb appeal.
- Keep the lawn mowed and raked, shrubs trimmed, and the sidewalk swept.
- Plant shrubs or install fencing to block unpleasant views.
- Clean the exterior of your home. Clean oil stains from the driveway and garage.
- Repair and/or paint exterior siding, trim, gutters, shutters, glazing, and window frames.
- Repair or replace the street numbers on the house.
- Make sure all exterior lighting is working.
Garages, Carports, and Sheds:
- Replace burned out lights.
- Clear away cobwebs.
- Keep areas clean and uncluttered. Organize and put away tools.
- Lubricate, adjust, or repair garage door.
Interior Maintenance: On the inside, remove as much clutter as possible. Hire professionals to do a deep cleaning. Cleanliness is a sign to buyers that the home has been well cared for.
- Clean and vacuum carpets. Replace worn carpet and use area rugs as needed.
- Apply a fresh coat of paint.
- Wash curtains and draperies.
- Clean ceiling fans and light fixtures. Check for cobwebs in all corners.
- Clean and organize all closets and cabinets.
- Lubricate window slides; make sure doors close smoothly.
Kitchens and Bathrooms: Overall, kitchens and bathrooms should be spotless. These two rooms alone can sell a home.
- Clean all appliances inside and out.
- Replace all light bulbs (appliances included).
- Clean floors and light fixtures.
- Deodorize disposal, dishwasher, and refrigerator. Neutralize odors and clean all mold and mildew.
- Repair leaky faucets. Make sure toilet flushes properly.
- Test all electrical outlets.
- Unclutter counters and cabinets.
- Clean shower door or replace curtain. Remove soap residue and lime deposits from sink, shower, and bathtub.
- Put out fresh towels.
Create a Pleasant Atmosphere: Overall, make sure your home exudes an inviting atmosphere. You want the potential buyer to have a pleasant experience visiting your home so that they remember the positive attributes that your home possesses.
- Turn on all lights. Open drapes to allow natural light as well.
- Light candles and put out fresh flowers.
- Play quiet background music.
- Turn on the air conditioner or heater so that your home is at a pleasant temperature.
- Be absent during showings and keep pets outside.