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Selling your home can seem much easier said than done. Believe it or not, small changes you can make to your property can have a huge impact on the time in which it takes to sell your house, and of course, how much you are able to sell it for.
A lot of homeowners make the mistake of putting their property straight onto the market soon after deciding to sell. As a result, prospective buyers arrange viewings and come to see a house that still has work to be done, requires redecorating and is perhaps a little too cluttered for them to keep an open mind. Consequently, little offers are made and those that are, are unsuitable.
When you’re a homeowner, you’re already a step above a realtor. You understand your home in a way a real estate agent doesn’t. You know the ins and outs. You know the special details of your home that make it unique. With Crawford Home Buyers, a realtor isn’t needed! An added unnecessary charge that wouldn’t be cheap has already been dealt with by the professionals.
When it comes to selling up and moving out, it’s vital that you can present potential buyers with a great first impression. Your home must be as clean, attractive and well-kept as possible to ensure that you generate the correct interest in your property and as a result, realistic offers from buyers that you would be more than happy to accept. Even better if it’s new!
If you are thinking about selling your home, or you are considering doing so in the near future, here are 10 helpful hints on the home improvements you can make to add value to your property and guarantee a quick sale.
Consider Your Curb Appeal
“Curb appeal” is how attractive your home is when viewed from the street. Overgrown gardens, piled up rubbish, weed-ridden driveways, and other signs of an unkept home can instantly put a prospective buyer off. Make sure your garden and outdoor areas are clear and presentable before arranging any viewings.
Replace Your Windows
Many prospective buyers can be immediately discouraged to make an offer on a property simply because it has old, wooden, single glazed windows. If your home requires new double glazing windows, make sure you get it sorted! By doing so, you can even increase the monetary value of your home by up to 10%!
Declutter Your House
It’s important for buyers to be able to visualise their new home, which is incredibly difficult if every room is filled to the brim with personal affects and belongings. Try and declutter as much as possible to allow prospects to view your property with an open mind.
Refresh Your Décor
Interior décor can be very personal and, in some cases, off putting to potential buyers simply because it is not to their taste. To appeal to more prospects, consider refreshing your walls, and floors where possible, with neutral colours.
Clean & Tidy Your Rooms
Cleanliness is imperative if you want to sell your home! Grubby surfaces, stained carpets, dusty fittings, and the likes can deter people from putting an offer on your house. Get your marigolds on and give your home a thorough spring clean before allowing viewings to take place.
Light Your Candles
Believe it or not, how your home smells can increase its sales potential! If you have arranged viewings, perhaps consider lighting candles or using reed diffusers (you can even make you own) to ensure that your home smells clean, fresh and appealing. Some of the most common scents used include vanilla, pine and citrus.
Assess Your Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is very important to modern day homeowners, as it can indicate the potential cost of their utilities. Energy efficiency can be improved with double glazing and better insulation. Check your rating and how to increase it before taking your home to market.
Remove Your Pets
As much as you adore your pets, it’s important to remember that many people don’t. Those with allergies, and those who just don’t like dogs, for instance, can be put off if you have pets. If you are arranging viewings, be sure to wipe up those mucky paw prints and keep your fluffy friends out of the way.
Throw Out Your Rubbish
Having a clear out can be a cleansing experience, but make sure you get the job finished! Piling up rubbish in your garden or driveway can give prospect buyers the wrong impression. A short trip to the local recycling centre will leave your property clear and clutter-free for viewings.
Freshen Up Your Front Door
Your front door is the ultimate focal point of your property, and of course, an attractive security feature. Old front doors with aged safety fittings can cause concern for some prospective buyers. Where necessary, replace your current front door with a new UPVC or composite door to give buyers peace of mind.
Interesting Stuff, Right?
Being appropriately prepared when selling your home can alleviate a lot of stress and potentially speed up the process, all whilst adding value to your home. If you are considering selling your home, use these tips to put yourself in a better position when taking your property to market.