Looking to sell your home fast? Here are some tips to help you get your home ready to sell quickly… and earn top dollar, too.
Declutter. Get rid of anything you don’t need. “A messy house can lead to lower offers,” says Peggy McLaughlin, Sales Associate at ERA Justin Realty. “That’s why it’s so important to declutter first.” Clear all clutter off all surfaces and organize storage areas. Sell or donate any unneeded items.
Clean. You will need to deep clean everything from the kitchen counters to window sills and baseboards to the inside of your closets. “A clean home shows buyers the house has been well cared-for,” says Jennifer Darby Metzger, Broker/Owner at ERA Justin Realty. Hire a professional if necessary.
Make the house impersonal. Take down your family photos. Buyers need to imagine themselves in your house, not you. “Buyers are turned off by houses that are too personalized,” says McLaughlin. “So, it’s also a good idea to pack up anything that might be considered polarizing: unusual artwork, religious icons, or any political statements.”
Repairs. Take care of any obvious repairs before you list. “Why would anyone want to buy a house with a leaking roof?” asks Darby Metzger. “This goes for the little things you’ve been putting off, too. Taking care of them will make the difference between a good offer and a disappointing one.”
Curb appeal. First impressions matter. That’s why curb appeal is so important. “Make the first sight of your house count by freshening up the paint and landscaping,” says McLaughlin. “Make it look inviting.”
Always be available for viewings. If a potential buyer wants to see your house on short notice, make it happen. “Missing a showing could mean missing out on a sale,” says Darby Metzger.
Hire a real estate agent.
“The fact of the matter is, a real estate agent will sell your home faster and at a higher price than if you try going it alone,” says McLaughlin. “Use their knowledge to your advantage.”
Local agents know your area’s market trends. To find out what’s selling and what’s not, call Peggy McLaughlin or any of ERA Justin Realty’s sales associates at 201-939-7500.