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Tips for Sellers
How to Make a Good First
Impression
When showing your property, you only get one chance to
make a good impression. Here are some suggestions to
increase the desirability of your property to potential buyers, and help you
sell at the best price, in the least amount of time.
Curb Appeal is Essential
A buyer's first impression is formed by viewing the outside of your
property. A mowed lawn, trimmed hedge and weeded garden all help
create a good first impression.
Inspect the exterior of your property, including shutters and windows. Steel or aluminum siding should be clean. If the house needs painting, buyers will notice, and may consider it a major objection to purchasing your property.
Pay close attention to the front door -- it should sparkle. Polish the doorknob, clean the glass and replace a worn screen.
Neatness Counts
A sparkling clean home greatly enhances its appeal to buyers. Scrub
each room from top to bottom covering every nook and cranny. The
entryway, kitchen and bathrooms are key areas, and should be given special
attention.
Shampoo the carpeting if it hasn't been done recently. If your carpet is old and matted it will be a detriment to selling the property. Consider replacing it or removing it if there is hardwood underneath.
Eliminate Clutter
Closets, cupboards and other storage areas should be neat and uncluttered.
Box everything you do not use regularly and donate it, sell it, throw it or
store it.
Look at each room in the house with "less is best" as your objective. Remove unneeded furniture to make each room appear more spacious. Kitchen countertops should be clear of everything except what you use daily.
If it's Broken, Fix it
Repairs such as a loose door knob, broken dishwasher, dripping faucet and
squeaky or sticking door all detract from a property's value. An
afternoon spent making needed repairs now can eliminate a buyer's objections
late. Hire a professional, if needed.
Small Additions Make a Big Impression
With minimal expense, you can improve the appearance of any room.
Consider replacing worn area rugs and throw pillows. New towels can
freshen a tired kitchen or bath. Flowers add warmth and charm to any
location. Identify the things you can do to make areas more pleasing
to a buyer.
It's a Team Effort
Enlist the help of all household members to get the house ready -- and keep
it ready -- for prospective buyers. A few minutes spent tidying up
each morning can make the difference for a showing in the afternoon.
For help with your home projects, check out Edina Recommends, our directory of highly recommended home product and service providers. Go to www.edinarealty.com or call me for details.