It seems crazy to think that while we live in sub-zero temperatures right now, owners who want to catch the spring selling season should start to think of how to pitch their property in spring sunshine.
As an experienced agency, we believe you sellers benefit most from being in the market at the start of a seasonal selling season, especially if we’re talking spring.
Why? Those who “get out of the blocks” early will catch buyers at the ultimate moment. Three or four weeks later, there’ll be more properties and more competition.
It’s not a guarantee of a quick sale, of course, because many markets are still waiting for the rebound. However, this strategy will give you the best chance of finding a buyer and achieving a great price.
The key to your success is preparation. Always declutter and depersonalize so buyers can imagine themselves living in your home. Also, ensure the property frontage is immaculate to create a good first impression.
Other tasks will also help you strike a great deal, too. Here are 10 ideas to give your prospective buyers a five-star presentation:
Smart home – Invest in technology that impresses buyers. Consider installing a high-quality smart thermostat to minimize bills, and a video doorbell to enhance security. These provide a modern-tech halo that shows your home is updated and efficient.
Consistent lighting – Replace every bulb with 3000K (warm white) LEDs. This temperature provides a crisp, high-end gallery feel that photographs beautifully and makes spaces feel cosy yet clean.
Record-keeping – Buyers value owners who maintain their home. And nothing provides greater proof than a folder of manuals and guarantee certificates for appliances, the HVAC system and water heater. Swatches of paint colour are also appreciated. It illustrates the pride you have taken in your home.
Cost control – Another influential set of records are your utility bills, which will show how much it costs to run the property. These costs are often a fear for buyers, and they tend to assume the worst.
Dead zones – Most homes have so-called dead zones. Show buyers how to use every inch of space in your home to increase the perceived value. For example, an awkward nook under the stairs can be filled with a built-in-style floating desk or a reading chair with a lamp.
Finishing touches – For a few hundred dollars, swap out dated, shiny brass or cheap plastic cabinet pulls and door handles for matte black or brushed nickel hardware. This is one of the highest ROI (Return on Investment) DIY projects because it touches every room in the house.
Pre-inspection – Don’t wait for buyers to find problems. Flip the script and commission your own inspection. This allows you time to fix minor issues and prevents the buyer from using small flaws to chip away at your asking price.
Floor focus – If you have hardwood floors, use a professional-grade restorer to bring back the sheen. With carpets, get them steam-cleaned to lift the pile so they look new again.
Untapped potential – The garage is often the forgotten room. Paint the walls a bright white and if your budget allows, apply an epoxy floor coating. A clean, bright garage suggests the entire home has been meticulously maintained.
Lovely landscaping – As you’re selling in spring, your curb appeal needs to be vibrant. Plant pre-chilled bulbs, such as tulips and daffodils, or plan to have fresh mulch and “instant colour” annuals in pots by the entryway. In a spring market, colour equals “turn-key” to a buyer.