5 Tips to Prep your Home for Sale

If you're thinking about selling your home, and you're living in the property, there are a few items that will help you get your home ready for sale, and remain "sale ready" throughout the showings. We compiled a small list of 5 important items to incorporate when selling your home.

1. De-Clutter your Home
Many people "collect" things while living in a home. Eventually, personal items sometimes can overtake a living space, and cause gridlock in the flow of your floorplan. While personal items are great, and a reminder of the life you've lived in that home, too many personal items can be a distraction to a potential buyer. By thinning out your personal items, a buyer will be better able to concentrate on the home, and not Aunt Edna's "Coo-Coo Clock" that is in dire need of a tuneup. If you're planning on selling, you'll have to pack items up eventually, so it may be a good idea to get a jumpstart on some items!

2. Replace Lightbulbs
This one is simple. Homes photograph and show better when all lights work. Plus, if you have several bulbs out, a Buyer may think the deferred maintenance may extend BEYOND a few lightbulbs. Clean em up, and put new, bright bulbs in. Your photos will look better, and you'll thank me later!

3. De-oderize
We get it. You've got 15 cats and they're family. But you know what really turns buyers off? Cat small - litterbox, dander, etc. If you are an animal lover, and we at Zahler Properties are, know when it's time to freshen the home up. Many people often remember SMELL more than visual takeaways from a home. If you're home is known as the "cat smell" home, chances are any offer you get will be hurt by the smell.

4. Have a Plan and Stick to It
If you're cohabiting in your home with a significant other, or children, give everyone a task to keep the home looking great during showings. No one wants to see your dirty laundry or dishes, and by making sure everyone has an assigned task, the home will remain presentable throughout the showing phase of the home, and you'll be happy every time you come home to a clean home - a huge bonus!

5. Curb Appeal
Now is the time of year that we have color - flowers and plants are in bloom, and they yard, front and back, should look great. By spending a few minutes manicuring the yard, you will leave a great first impression on a potential buyer!

If you're thinking of selling, these 5 tips will help you remain competitive in this market, and help you get top dollar for your home!

Until Next Time...

Geoff Zahler