Are you looking to sell your house and move to a bigger one? Maybe you got a job in a different city and you have no choice but to relocate. It could also be that you are planning to move in with your spouse or you have an emergency that requires urgent funding, and selling your home is the only way out.
Whatever your reason for selling your home, you should be aware that hundreds of other people list their homes every day.
In 2021, approximately 762,000 new homes were sold. If you want yours to sell fast, you must do things differently to keep up with the stiff housing market competition. So, what are some essential things to do before selling your beloved home?
Look for Cash Buyers
Selling your home to cash buyers is the secret to saving both time and money. For starters, the buyers will buy your house as it is, so there is no need for repairs and improvements. You also don’t have to stage the home for showings, as the buyers don’t pay much attention to its appearance.
Even better, cash buyers have everything set to close the deal. They don’t depend on a mortgage to fund the purchase, so you are assured of selling your house fast. This is the best option if you are in a hurry to sell.
Head to the internet and search for “we buy houses near me.” You will find many cash buyers. Select the most reputable ones with the best offers. The good thing is that you don’t need the best realtor to get the best value for your house.
Declutter and Depersonalize the Space
As soon as you list your home for sale, you will have potential buyers come in each day for showings. And if you want to create a positive impression, you must maintain cleanliness and depersonalize the house.
Start by doing a deep clean sweep of the compound, windowsills, tables, and counters. Get rid of rarely-used items in your closet, cupboards, drawers, and other storage spaces. You may donate the items, have a garage sale, or pack them off-site.
The goal is to create as much space as you can. Otherwise, buyers might perceive your house as too small to accommodate their belongings.
Consider getting rid of any personal items such as family photos and artwork. The idea helps the buyers visualize themselves living in the house. Depending on their taste and style, they can easily project their vision of how they would love the space to look.
Furthermore, decluttering and depersonalization make moving easier for you when the time comes. The reason is that most of your things will be packed and ready for the move.
Invest in Repairs
Homebuyers are looking to maximize the value of their money by minimizing other possible spending, such as repair costs. It will help if you handle most of the repairs before listing your property for sale to improve its functionality and curb appeal.
Besides, some home renovations will boost your property value, so it is a win for you too. Pay attention to the critical areas like garage door replacement, window replacement, tiles, and woodwork repairs.
Check for any stained areas like the ceiling and floors. Ensure there are no broken doors, missing tiles, shingles, or broken patio pavers. Such minor aspects will make your home look neglected, which will prolong its stay on the market or reduce its value.
You may also seek advice from a real estate agent on which areas to prioritize or which ones are likely to bring the highest value.
Repaint the Walls
Again, the curb appeal of your property will determine how long it stays on the market. And among the most effective ways to improve its overall appearance is by repainting.
Good paintwork can quickly make an old house look new and well-kept. It improves the buyers’ first impression, so it will help to work on both the interior and exterior walls.
While at this, avoid projecting your color preferences onto buyers. Instead, lean more towards neutral colors and leave it to the new homeowners to decide which colors to paint depending on the style and color of their furniture and décor.
Make Your Home Smell Good
Even the slightest foul odor is a turn-off to buyers. They will perceive that as a sign of a neglected and unkempt home, and no one wants to invest in such a thing.
The problem with smells is that you might not notice them because you are used to the environment. But that’s the first thing visitors will notice when they come in for showings. It will help clean and inspect all areas for pet smells, clogged sinks, and lingering garbage smells.
After cleaning, you may use plug-in deodorizers and candles to give the space a welcoming smell. Avoid strong scents as, again, you don’t want to turn away allergic buyers or individuals that dislike artificial fragrances.
Add Some Plants and Flowers
Depending on the season or weather, adding plants and flowers to your space boosts the curb appeal and value of the property. Ensure the plants are well maintained, watered, fed, and trimmed.
You may also add a pop of color with flowers in vases. The idea adds life to your property and is a way of staying ahead of competitors. Most buyers will appreciate the gesture as it shows that your home is well cared for.
Hire an Inspector before Selling Your Home
It would help to conduct an in-depth home inspection before putting it up for sale. The expert will spot any potential issues that could derail the house sale or reduce its value.
Buyers may want proof of inspection to save them from purchasing a property that will be an improvement nightmare.
Ensure you hire a reliable inspector and, if possible, be present through the entire process. Most importantly, get clear pictures for proof of inspection.
Make the Most Out of Your Home Sale With Prior Preparations
If you are planning on selling your home, you must think and act like a smart homeowner to make a fast sale and do it at the highest value. And