First impressions matter. If you take the time to spruce up your home before any showings or open houses, you will likely sell it faster and at a better price. While your listing agent can also give you advice on how to wow potential buyers, here are a few tips to get you started:
- Make it spotless. Inside and out, the windows should sparkle. Clean the frames, too. Wash, polish or vacuum all the floors. Clean cabinets thoroughly. Kitchens and bathrooms should be especially pristine.
- Clear the clutter. What are treasures to you may be distractions to potential buyers. So keep the knickknacks to a minimum. Plants can be attractive, but make sure they don’t block any windows. Also, clear out the family photographs -- people want to picture their own families in this space, not yours. This is also a good time to throw out, donate to charity, sell or give away items you won’t be taking with you. The extra space in closets will be appealing to potential buyers.
- Do repairs. Whether it’s making sure all the light bulbs work, weeding the front path or tightening kitchen hinges, set aside time to get the small jobs done before an open house.
- Paint in neutral colors. It’s easy to do, modernizes the look of your home and will appeal to most people. Adding new light fixtures is also an inexpensive way to update any room.
- Bring in fresh air. Open the windows to air out your home, but close them before visitors the open house begins. Skip the heavy air fresheners as some potential buyers may have allergies. Turn on the lights and open all the drapes, unless the view is unsightly. Clear away throw rugs, as they may hold odors and can make a room look smaller.
- Send your pets on vacation. Or at least remove them during open houses. Some people may be fearful or allergic, and the sight of a litter box is a turn-off.
- Enjoy a touch of nature. Set out a bowl of fresh oranges in the dining room, and display pots of fresh flowers at the front door and throughout the house.
- Point out what you most enjoy. If the view is fabulous, leave out a pair of binoculars for visitors to have a look. If the garden is charming, place a few chairs in a shady corner. If the basement has a new bar, set out some glasses.
- Be hospitable. Provide a spot for visitors to hang winter coats or remove wet overshoes. If it’s icy outside, salt the walkway. A tray of fresh cookies and a pot of hot coffee go a long way toward making a home inviting.
- Hand out fliers. Your home’s fact sheets should be available for potential buyers to pick up during the open house or showing.
- Watch out for your valuables. You likely will not know the people coming into your home and opening your cupboards, so remove or lock away small items, such as cash, jewelry, coin collections and ornaments. Even if they are not costly, fragile items can make a mess if they are accidentally broken, so pack them up early, too.
- Leave. Clear out when your agent is holding an open house. Prospective buyers will spend more time looking and be more comfortable touring if the homeowner is not present.
Published on January 16, 2007