by Jenn Heller
Thinking about listing your home for sale this spring or summer? These warmer months tend to be buzzing with activity from eager home buyers. Many are on the hunt to establish roots and settle in before the new school year kicks off. Let's ensure your home stands out from the rest during this busy selling season with these 5 invaluable tips to get market-ready.
1. Get Organized
Buyers want to see themselves living in your home, but it's hard to envision if your space feels cluttered and cramped. Before listing your home, take a stroll through each room to create an airy atmosphere by decluttering and organizing. Consider stowing away excess items, especially in homes with children, where toys can easily take over. Removing family photos and cleaning out closets can also help your home appear more spacious, cleaner, and make a stellar first impression. You can easily save the time and stress that can come from this task by hiring a professional home organizer to box up some things for storage. For those who tend to have clutter follow them daily, another tip is to buy a few extra laundry baskets so when showings are scheduled you can stash things into the baskets and hide them in your car during the showing.
2. Deep Clean
Once you've tidied up and cleared out the clutter, it's time for a thorough cleaning. Consider hiring a professional cleaning service to tackle those hard-to-reach spots so that every nook and cranny sparkles. Pay special attention to high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms, as these are focal points for potential buyers. If you have tile or marble, consider steam cleaning it. Clean grout lines, shiny fixtures, and pristine countertops can make a world of difference in leaving a lasting impression.
3. Curb Appeal and Yard Work
Curb appeal sets the stage for any home viewing, and a well-groomed yard makes for a powerful first impression. A manicured lawn not only shows buyers that your home has been cared for, but it also piques their curiosity about what lies beyond the front door. Make sure your lawn and driveway are maintained weekly while listed, with clean edging, weed control, fresh mulch, colorful flowers, and trimmed shrubbery. Pressure wash the driveway, entryway, and porch a week before listing. You want a welcoming exterior that says, "Welcome Home."
4. Light and Bright
Nothing beats a light-filled home, so maximize natural light by opening blinds and curtains. Before showings, ensure all lights are switched on to brighten the space, even during daytime visits. Well-lit rooms create an inviting atmosphere and make your home feel more spacious and welcoming to potential buyers. Make sure all bulbs are working and have consistency in bulb choice, for example, all soft white or all cool white.
5. Remain Neutral
When selecting paint colors, stick to light, airy neutrals to appeal to a broader range of buyers. Darker colors can be overwhelming and may make rooms feel smaller and more confined. Lighter hues create a sense of openness and timelessness, allowing buyers to picture their furnishings and style in the space.
By following these simple yet effective tips, you can ensure your home shines bright in the competitive real estate market, attracting eager buyers and securing a successful sale while showcasing your home in its best light.
About the Author
Jenn Heller is the Operations Manager for The Volen Group, Keller Williams Luxury International, a top real estate team in Ponte Vedra Beach. Jenn has over 20 years experience in Real Estate and is an Atlantic Beach resident.
Posted by Gwinn Volen on
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