Even if you’ve failed to sell your home it doesn’t mean you have to throw in the towel. Maybe it’s time to take a look at what you can do to reverse that trend. Real estate experts will tell you that making sure your home is attractive and move-in ready is the key to any sale. Additionally, you’ll get a larger percentage of your investment back. Here are a few ideas to get you started and breathe some life back into your real estate listing.
Kitchens and Bathrooms Sell Homes
You’ve probably heard the phrase “kitchens and bathrooms sell homes” repeatedly. As a matter of fact, research has now proven that statement to be true. Additionally, you’ll get more than your money back when you sell your home. Just updating the space will help but what can really turn the tide is a renovation that includes things like new kitchen cabinets especially if they’re solid and quality products.
A new backsplash, lighting, paint, energy efficient appliances and a granite or quartz countertop will ensure you get top dollar. In the bathroom make sure that fixtures have been updated as well and that the sink, tile and bath have been newly re-caulked and are in good repair.
Curb Appeal Gets Buyers in the Door
There are two things to remember when it comes to curb appeal. First, if they can’t see the house for the shrubbery and trees they won’t know it’s there. Secondly, if they can see the house but it’s desperately in need of paint and repair they won’t even consider looking.
With the right landscaping and a fresh looking exterior, especially an inviting entryway, you can expect to get a 100% return on your investment. Color is important in plants as is mixing the heights but make sure your shrubbery has been cut back so buyers can see the best architectural elements the house has to offer. Finally, make sure the walkway and home foundation are in good repair.
Clutter Is a Price Killer
Potential buyers need to visualize themselves living in your home. However, they’ll have a difficult time doing that if it’s filled with knickknacks, memorabilia and clutter. Cleaning out the clutter will cost very little but could be the difference between making a sale and having your home sit on the market. Pack up everything, including most of the clothes in the closet, and store them in a pod or mini storage unit. Most of all, make sure you depersonalize.
Pictures of you and your loved ones make it harder for buyers to see themselves in the space. Take the view of a minimalist and get rid of everything you don’t need with the exception of a few plants and books. The biggest advantage is that when it does come time to move you’re already packed.
Don’t Forget the Little Things
Little things like new lighting fixtures, faucets and paint can make a huge difference in the look and feel of a home. Opt for neutral colors and lots of natural light by replacing traditional curtains with sheers. Remove all wallpaper then repaint. If you have hardwood floors under the old carpet then tear it out. If not you either need to ensure you have it professionally cleaned or have it replaced with laminate, wood-look tile or hardwood. Wood floors are right on trend today and make a home easier to sell. Finally, stage your home so you show off its best features.
When it comes to selling a home, a few changes can make a huge difference. Work with an experienced professional to ensure you home is priced correctly, your marketing it on point, and your sales team is on top of things. At First Team, we represent more buyers and more sellers than any other brokerage in Orange County because we know how to get the job done.
