With more than a million homes listed for sale across America at peak times, you would not be alone in considering whether spring, the most popular season to buy and sell property, is the ideal moment to put your property on the market.
While the market is rebalancing after two years of double-digit value growth, I anticipate there’ll be no shortage of motivated buyers once the days warm up.
As an experienced agent, I’ve seen many value cycles come and go. And I’ve learnt that no matter the general mood of the market, there’s always a demand for properties in pristine condition.
Owners who spend time and energy preparing their property for a marketing campaign will strike a deal faster and achieve an excellent sales price. Those who don’t bother usually face lowball offers or watch buyers walk.
The general tone of today’s market suggests momentum is with the buyers. But when we find two buyers prepared to fight for your property, the tables turn quickly.
That’s why it’s essential to prepare your home for sale and use a great agent with a track record of attracting motivated buyers.
Try out these seven ways to prepare for a sale:
Make repairs
Walk through your home and identify all the problems, large and small, then undertake repairs. Tighten wobbly handles, replace blown light bulbs, repair dripping taps, clean the gutters, change HVAC filters, and pressure wash the garden path. Be aware home inspections scrutinize more than 1,000 points.
Declutter
Tidying your home is essential, but you’ll go one better by depersonalizing your home. You want buyers to picture themselves in your property, which is much easier if they don’t feel like visitors.
Brush up
One of the best-value improvements is a fresh lick of paint. Indoors, use whites, creams and other neutrals as they enhance the impression of space. Resist the temptation to select bold colors even for feature walls.
Curb appeal
A front door in a primary color can lift the exterior and make an excellent first impression. Consider whether you need to update the outside lights. Your front garden should be well maintained, and perhaps plant some spring blooms to add color.
Light it up
With spring in the air, you want to make the most of the natural light in your home. Pull back your curtains and blinds, and move furniture that blocks windows.
Minor upgrades
Whether you should invest substantially in a new bathroom or kitchen depends on the property. Consider low-cost ways to give these areas a lift. New cabinet doors can transform a kitchen, while modern towel rails, faucets and fittings in the bathroom will have a similar impact.
Odor and out
You may not be aware, but a home with pets can have an unpleasant smell. If you’re concerned, hire professional cleaners. And it’s best to hide all signs of pets when the buyers view your home.