If there is one golden rule that owners selling their home should know, it’s this: first impressions count.
Buyers have been known to drive to a home or apartment complex but then keep on going because they simply didn’t like what they saw.
Complaints stemming from a poor first impression are numerous – untidy yard, weathered exterior, visible trash or even too many vehicles in the driveway.
Even when buyers decide the home is worth an inspection, your property is still being reviewed critically.
Broken concrete footpaths, rickety gates, grass that hasn’t seen a lawn mower in weeks are all common issues that turn away buyers who you’ve spent serious marketing dollars to attract to your front door.
Experienced realtors and agents will urge you to address all these issues, and create a welcoming space near the front door. Even repainting your front door has an incredibly positive impact on buyers.
One area that is occasionally overlooked, however, is the entryway.
Too often, coats and hats are left hanging, and shoes are discarded in the corner. And while this has nothing to do with the quality of the home, it distracts the buyer’s focus from the positive aspects of the property.
Here are items that you should ensure are out of sight when your buyers arrive:
Mail and flyers – Perhaps it’s hard to imagine that you would leave your mail for everyone to see, but it happens. And it’s not a good look.
Key tray – Super useful for everyday life, but a key tray isn’t a visually appealing aspect of your home. So, put the keys and tray away while prospective buyers are inspecting your home.
Family shoe collection – If you can’t put them all away, then use a shoe rack to make sure they are tidy. Any shoes that are not used regularly should be put away.
Clothing – It’s amazing how sweaters and other warm clothes can stay on a rack even during summer. Try not to clutter the area with heavy coats. Occasionally, a strategically placed hat, scarf or umbrella will make a pleasant visual impact.
Bags of bags – Whether it’s the kids’ school bags, a computer satchel or discarded totes, these should never be visible to your buyers. Nothing says “dumping ground” more than a collection of bags near the doorway.