Improving Home Showings

Simple ways to improve a home showing

As we move into the Spring selling season here are some things to consider when preparing a home for sale. Critically view your home’s curbside appeal. The potential buyer’s first impression is of key importance, as the decision to purchase comes from the ability of the buyers to envision themselves living in the home. Any apparent, even minor, defect will distract the buyer from this idea. Sprucing up the landscape, especially in the front yard, is fairly easy and inexpensive. Add colorful and flowering plants. Water and fertilize grass well so that it is green and lush. Be sure bushes, trees and grass are well trimmed.
The front door should be in excellent condition. This is a home’s primary symbol; typically it reflects the home’s general condition and leaves an impression that can affect one’s experience in viewing the rest of the house. Give both the interior and exterior of the home a coat of paint wherever it is needed. Keep adjoining rooms in the same color palette to make the home appear larger and flow better. Hire a professional to paint windows and any other details. Repair leaky faucets, loose knobs and handles, crooked cabinet doors; anything that gives the wrong impression of the home’s condition. Install new light switch covers, especially in high traffic areas. Make sure closets, shelves and counters are as neat and uncluttered as possible. Remove all objects or papers that make a room appear disorderly.
Edit extraneous furniture and accessories, including family photos. If needed, use slipcovers to create a more unified space. Generally the emptier a room is, the more spacious it looks.
When the property is to be shown, be sure to open all blinds and drapes to brighten the rooms. If necessary, leave lights on in darker areas. Attention to these details before selling can substantially increase the value and limit the amount of time your home is on the market.