Update lighting, ceiling fans, kitchen and bathroom fixtures and hardware – Replacing old fixtures/hardware and replacing them with inexpensive but more modern fixtures can have a huge visual impact with Buyers. Remember to replace any lighting fixtures and mirrors that you wish to take with you before taking photos and going on market. A Buyer expects to get what they see.
Refresh paint with neutral colors – Neutral colors provide a neutral pallet for the Buyer to appreciate the special features of a room and plan how their own furnishing will fit the room. Dark colors make a room look smaller.
Clean or replace carpets and floor coverings – All carpeting can use a professional cleaning and stretching prior to listing, but if it is damaged or stained, replacing it will take away the distraction of the defect and allow the Buyer to focus on the positive aspects of the rooms.
De-personalize and pre-pack – Again, it is important to provide an environment that a Buyer can see themselves living in as their own. Pre-pack personal photos and clutter to give a space air and look larger. Organize all areas including closets and laundry room as if your mother was coming to visit. Remember…less is best.
Honey, stop the car! – Curb appeal. Creating that great first impression of your home – at the curb. Think clean, freshly mowed and trimmed, just like you want your home to be. It will take some maintaining, much like the inside of your home – cleaning up after a storm (picking up those limbs and raking leaves), replace dead plants, some watering – but its well worth it.
Face of the place– The wood rot on the window trim, peeling paint and curling boards on the deck…if you’ve noticed it, a buyer will, too. Take the time to take care of these items now, and have less to haggle over with a potential buyer when home inspection time comes after signing the contract. It will save you worry and money doing it before you list.