Whether you’re planning to buy or sell your home soon, there is a lot to know and do to prepare for these big real estate ventures. Be sure to join us for Real Estate 60015: Top Tips for Buyers and Sellers to learn everything you need to know on how to get started, up-to-date information about the North Shore housing market, along with an update on the financial side of the real estate world and home inspection tips to keep things smooth sailing.
To help you get started in the right direction, here are some helpful tips to get your home ready to sell at the price you’re looking for:
1. Deep clean your home
Give your home a deep clean, including windows, upholstery/carpet and the kitchen appliances. Maintain your lawn and landscaping prior to a showing. In winter, shovel and de-ice walkways. Make sure your balcony, deck and/or patio is inviting with potted plants and flowers.
2. Organize to highlight space
Go through your home and decide what can be thrown away or put into storage. Closets, bookcases, shelves and counters should get extra attention. Buyers want to see what space you have, so make sure you organize accordingly.
3. Make small repairs
Make small repairs to your home, such as touching-up spackling and painting, replacing a cracked window, fixing a leaky faucet or changing burned out light bulbs. Paint your walls using a neutral color palette.
4. Remove personal items
Keep pets out of the home during showings. Make sure to conceal food bowls and litter boxes. If you do not plan on including personal property such as window treatments or light fixtures as part of a sale, remove them prior to your first showing and replace them with attractive, inexpensive alternatives.
5. Speak to your agent
Your home should show like a model to help stand out in today’s competitive market. Ask your real estate agent how simply rearranging a few pieces of furniture can help sell your house.
Information provided by:
Brian R. Jessen, SVP of Mortgage Lending, guaranteedRate
Ryan L’Heureux, Real Estate Agent, Berkshire Hathaway
