With the spring home buying season right around the corner, it’s not too early to think about preparing your home or condo for sale. In order to obtain the highest price in the shortest time, remember the 4 Cs:
Clutter - Clutter keeps a home from showing well. It causes a potential buyer to think that the home lacks sufficient living space, storage space - or both – which are turn-offs for buyers. At the very least, it creates a distraction, drawing attention away from the home itself. Visit one of the many clutter-busting sites, or pick up a good clutter-busting book (but only if there’s room on your bookshelf!), for ideas on removing seldom- or never-used items, and organizing what remains. Not only will your home show better, it will be much easier to keep tidy between showings.
Cleanliness - Your home’s cleanliness really does matter to potential buyers. A lack of cleanliness implies a lack of care and maintenance, red flags to potential buyers. Once the clutter has been removed, it’s important to do a thorough cleaning from top to bottom. (It’s spring cleaning time, anyway, right?) Your home should not only look clean, but smell clean. And don’t stop at the inside. Make sure porches, decks and gutters are cleaned, and the lawn is maintained. Imagine that every showing will be like a “first date” for your home. And, as the saying goes, you never get a second chance to make a first impression.
Color - You may love bright colors, but when selling your home, it’s best to keep things as neutral as possible. Yes, it’s just paint, but most buyers are unable to see past neon green walls, and even if they can, they’ll factor the cost of repainting into their offer. Neutral creams, tans and greys allow potential buyers to envision their furnishings in your home. For traditional homes, consider exterior paint, as well; it should blend with other homes in the neighborhood, and look crisp and fresh. One exception to this rule is beach homes and condos, especially those sold furnished and/or on vacation rental plans, where bright colors are often expected and welcome.
Consultation - Do you know your home’s true value in the marketplace? Can you show it objectively to potential buyers on a regular basis? Do you know how to qualify those buyers or negotiate an offer? Do you know how to protect your legal interests when writing a contract for sale? Experienced Realtors handle each of these things on a daily basis. Plus, they have access to marketing tools designed to sell your home for the best price in the shortest time. Even after commissions, sellers who use Realtors average more for their homes than sellers who don’t.
Newman-Dailey agents have the experience and temperament to guide you through the process with ease, getting you to the final “C” – closing – as smoothly as possible. Visit our Destin Real Estate Sales website or call 800-225-7652 to speak with one of our knowledgable Destin Realtors today.
*Photo: 3115 Sanctuary at Redfish in Blue Mountain Beach
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