To say the least, we live in uncertain times. That said, I still have clients who need to sell or buy a home right now. I also have clients ready to buy and sell when the impact of the pandemic and the need for social isolation is over. If you have decided to sell your home either now, or in the future, there are several things that will maximize your home’s appeal to potential buyers and get your house sold COVID pandemic, or not!
1. Paint The Walls in Neutral Tones
A new coat of paint will leave each room looking fresh. and choosing neutral tones appeals to a wide audience, creating a blank slate for potential buyers to picture the space as their new home.
Taking the time to touch up scuff marks on baseboards and door frames will also give your home an extra polish to make it feel more move-in ready.
2. De-Clutter, De-Clutter, De-Clutter.
If a house is overflowing with stuff, not only can it make an entire room look smaller, buyers may worry that there is not enough storage for their own belongings. Start with decluttering countertops, bookshelves and window sills, and then tackle the cupboards, drawers, and closets. No space is off-limits for the eyes of a curious buyer!
Use this rule of thumb: Make sure each storage space is never more than half full, and organize what is left to look uniform and tidy. Decluttering can be tedious, but it offers the added bonus of helping you get organized for packing for your own move.
3. Fix The Small Things
This small detail can make all the difference; do a walk-through of your home and fix any loose handles. Check the drawer-pulls on cabinetry and make sure your closet doors are tracking properly. Secure shelves and check that they’re level. Be sure that there aren’t lightbulbs missing and their switches are all working. Check that the window coverings are all hanging properly.
These are some of the simplest things you can do to ensure a positive impression of your home, and when missed, may make potential buyers consider what else may be broken in your home.
4. Consider Curb Appeal
No matter how inviting the interior of your home is, potential buyers have already formed an impression before walking through the door. Increase your curb appeal by tidying up garden beds and ensuring your lawn is in good shape, add some greenery with inexpensive shrubs and bright, cheery flowers. Fix any cracks in your front steps or walkway. Painting your door a different color and adding a few flower pots to your front porch will also go a long way.
5. Keep Your Home Show Ready
Now that you’ve painted, de-cluttered, cleaned every corner, and made sure everything is in tip-top shape, you never know when a buyer may schedule a last-minute tour. Don’t leave dishes in the sink, keep the bathroom sparkling, ensure the beds are made and keep the floors free of dust bunnies. It may be inconvenient but you never know which viewing will lead to a sale!
Need help? Here are few places I’d like to recommend…
Need hardware and paint? Home Hardware – White Rock
Need paint, furniture restoration, and decorating help? The Passionate Home – Langley
Need to do some gardening? Art Knapps – Surrey
Please take good care,
Mike Wilson
Remax Treeland
604-533-3491
mike@fvlifestyle.com
Photo: Livabl
