Tips to help your house sell

A realtor contact in Florida sent me this, and I thought it was timely and helpful:


Make Each Room in Your Home a Selling Point

On the average, homebuyers are expecting more out of the homes they’re purchasing. Between the home improvement shows like Trading Spaces and the various magazines that show you what your home could look like, people are not satisfied with the norm. Not only do they want rooms for each of their kids, a playroom, hobby rooms, an office, large laundry rooms, sufficient bathrooms, and a decked out kitchens, people want windows galore and open space.

So how do you deal with these demands as a seller? Well, you can do your share by taking a few steps towards them. But, be cautious. Everyone has different tastes so don’t do anything extreme. Let’s walk through your home to see how we can make a few improvements without empting your savings account.1. Curb AppealAs you know, first impressions are imperative. Even if your house is on the small side, there are a few things you can do to get your house in the best selling-style possible. For one, make sure that the house is shining with new paint.

Get professionals to at least give you advice on the landscaping, even if you can’t afford to have them do the job as well. Keep cars out of the driveway to give the house an open look and make sure all toys and yard tools are out of sight. Give the windows a good cleaning and liven up the front door with a new handle, a fresh coat of paint, and a seasonal wreath. 2. The Entryway in Your HomeThe entryway to your home needs to warmly invite homebuyers. Do not keep anything but a few basics in the entryway. If you have room, place a small console table in the entryway with a lamp on it and a picture hanging over it. An area rug may be a good idea, as it adds warmth and character. If you have an open corner, add a decent-sized plant in an attractive planter. 3. The Kitchen The kitchen is often the room that will either make or break the potential deal. The kitchen is often the centerpiece of homes these days. Families cook, entertain, eat, do homework, discuss bills, talk on the phone, and so much more in kitchens. Here are a few starting points to spice up your kitchen.

Remove all clutter from the countertops. With the exception of major appliances like a microwave and maybe a mixer, keep only a fragranced candle on the counter top. Hide the basket that keeps your bills, newspapers, keys, and flyers. Move the recycling bin somewhere inconspicuous.

Look closely at the walls? Do they look worn? If you think they look slightly roughed up, they are going to look even worse to the homebuyers. Throw on a new coat of paint. It’s an inexpensive and quick way to brighten and clean up the room.

You may also think about replacing the hardware, upgrading the old faucet, and lightening up the room with recessed down lights over the stove and sink areas. Add a new piece of art and treat your windows with contemporary curtains. 4. The Living and Family RoomsAs we talked about earlier, homebuyers want “the look” that is displayed in the magazines. Thus, one thing you can do is place your furniture in the same way a decorator would. Let me explain. If you have a small room, make sure that the furniture in that room is on the small side. And don’t try to fit too much in that room. You want each room to feel open and spacious.

Next, choose a focal point for the room: fireplace, TV, piece of art, computer. Arrange your furniture around that centerpiece. If you can, avoid putting your sofa against the wall. Also try to place your furniture pieces close enough together to create the warm, intimate feeling that you and homebuyers both desire. Keep only a few throw pillows and blankets out to accessorize. Clear off the coffee table and end tables with the exception of a decorative piece or a lamp.
If you have a small room, place mirrors in a strategic place to reflect light and the depth of the room to make the room feel brighter and larger. Try to accessorize the room with items that add height to the room, without width, such as a long, thin lamp and plants. This will help make the room feel more open.

Talk with your agent for helpful hint that are specific for your home. Try not to take things personally. Remember, the agent has been in the selling business, not the decorating business. They know the market.