The arrival of spring doesn’t just signal the start of warmer weather—it also means the start of home-buying season. Spring is one of the best time of the year to sell your home as potential buyers come out of the woodwork. While this is promising for those putting their home on the market this time of year, there are still a few things you can do to make your home stand out from the rest. Here are some ways you can guarantee a quick sale.
1. Make your closets half empty
Storage is a secret selling point for many potential home buyers. Removing at least half of the items in your closets and then neatly organizing whatever’s leftover makes the storage space seem bigger than it actually is. Those viewing your home will want a peak, so make sure all your closets are neat and tidy.
2. Pick the right realtor
Hiring an informed and well-connected realtor is one of the easiest things you can do to guarantee a quick sale. Make sure your realtor stays up-to-date on the local real estate market and knows how to properly value your home. It’s also important to find one who embraces social media and has a solid online network you can tap into.
3. Put your pets away
While many people love animals, there are still enough people out there who are not fans that showing off your furry creatures during your open house may be the one thing that turns off the perfect buyer. Send your pets to a pet hotel or have them stay at a friends whenever you have people touring your house. Also, put away any trace of animal activity such as food dishes and litter boxes. This might give some people the impression your house is not clean.
4. Improve your house’s curb appeal
Walk out onto your street and give yourself a good look at how others might view your home. Take a moment to try to notice any of your home’s potential shortcomings. If you don’t think you can be critical enough, ask a trusted friend or your realtor to point out aspects of your front yard that might be preventing your home from giving the best first impression.
5. Depersonalize your home
When your potential buyers walk into your house, you want them to be able to see themselves living there. By removing treasured family photos, quirky art and painting your vibrant walls neutral, you are creating a blank canvas for all those who tour your house to fill with thoughts of future family memories.
6. Hire a Professional Photographer
While smartphones produce good quality photos, professionally-shot images still do a better job showcasing your home online. A professional photographer will know exactly how to capture your house in a way that will inspire potential buyers to come to your open house or schedule a tour.
7. Update Your Kitchen
The kitchen is one of the most valuable rooms in your home. On average, it is worth the most per square foot and its condition can make the difference between someone buying your home or passing on it. Consider refacing your kitchen’s cabinetry or upgrading your counter tops. They’re expensive renovations, but will add significant value to your home and make it more appealing.
