If you’re planning to sell your home right now, then you’ve probably got a Spring or Summer sale on your mind.
And that’s great news because these times of year are the most popular time for buying property.
With America’s real estate market red-hot – and it’s no different in our neighborhood – then you’re giving yourself ample time to prepare your property to maximize its value.
Even in the current property boom, homes don’t sell themselves. I know this from years of experience as a real estate agent.
So, give priority dollars to any structural issues to avoid them being a focus when the time comes to negotiate your price. Even relatively minor work can create the demand for deep discounts with some buyers.
It’s also a good idea to have a huge clean and declutter and create space that you’d forgotten you had!
Another winner is to give the property a fresh lick of paint, rejuvenating tired rooms or a frontage that’s a little weather-beaten.
As a Spring or Summer sale is in your sights, focus on your garden and outdoor entertaining areas. These have true pulling-power as the days warm up and folks begin to look forward to summer.
Here are some of the features that’ll be hot this summer.
Pizza ovens
A great outdoor entertaining area is a favorite among today’s buyers, and who doesn’t love pizza? Alongside the trusted barbecue, a pizza oven will win hearts and minds, especially if your target buyers are families.
Spacious patios
These provide a focal point for entertaining and they can be cheaply dressed with tables, chairs, umbrellas and pot plants. (Which you’ll get to take with you to your new home!)
In-ground pools
If you have a pool, spend some time making it as neat as a pin. Not everyone wants a pool because of the maintenance, but when the weather starts to warm up it’s an awesome selling feature. Make sure no leaves are lying on the pool floor when buyers walk through the property.
Solar panels
They’re an outdoor feature, too. And many younger buyers and families appreciate the opportunity to minimize their bills and contribute to environmental sustainability. Don’t install them just to sell the property, however. That’s a big project costing more than $20,000 in most cases so it may be . I’m not sure you’d get your money back.
Low-maintenance garden
Like swimming pools, some buyers are afraid of the work that it takes to maintain a garden. You can win them over with an automated watering system and low maintenance plants. Consider planting additional trees and shrubs that look after themselves and offer added privacy.