Spring real estate season is in full bloom and you may be considering placing your home on the market. We’ve reached out to local interior designers and real estate agents to share their favorite tips with us. Ensure that your home stands out with some quick and easy solutions that could mean the difference between For Sale and Sold!
Curb Appeal
Make that first impression count! Freshen up the exterior and make sure it looks clean and tidy. This could mean trimming trees and shrubs, mulching, mowing the lawn, power-washing walkways and driveway, and washing the front door, porch, columns and windows — don’t forget window panels in garage doors. Level outside fixtures such as lights and mailboxes, etc. and be sure that address numbers are clearly visible from the street.
Quick Tips
- Develop an interior and exterior lighting plan that shows of the hues inside the home.
- Add a new wreath, welcome mat or flower pot to outdoor spaces; these are minor investments that you can take to your new home!
Clean and Repair
Once you get buyers through the front door, you want them to focus on the best features of your home, not on your cleaning habits or lack thereof. Basic cleaning can go a long way — don’t neglect sinks, ovens, counter tops, tubs, light fixtures & floors. You also don’t want to give the impression of limited storage, so organize closets, pantry, cabinets, basements & garages. Preparing to move is a great time to throw out unused items or simply start packing early and move items into storage. Make minor repairs you haven’t gotten around to, including leaky faucets, drywall or ceiling cracks and paint touch-ups.
Quick Tips
- Use all white or black plastic hangers and have them all face the same way. Don’t store items on the floor of closets and face all labels out, being sure to leave space around items, including clothing.
- Tighten door knobs and cabinet hardware.
De-Clutter and De-Personalize
Clutter is distracting and can also leave the impression the home lacks space; de-clutter and remove unnecessary furniture so rooms appear neat and spacious. Walk from room to room and make sure furniture is arranged to provide an easy flow. Remove excessive family photos or very personal items – while you’ve spent years making the home your own, it’s important that buyers can picture themselves in the space.
Quick Tips
- Don’t get too carried away with de-cluttering, you want the home to feel spacious, not empty!
- If in doubt, ask a designer, realtor or even an honest friend for advice.
Price Competitively
Always analyze the competition and make sure your home is priced competitively. Consult a real estate professional for assistance.
Quick Tip
- Drive by the competition. Driving the neighborhood and seeing other homes and their settings in person will give you better perspective. Think about how buyers may compare and contrast the location, neighborhood, etc.
Follow these simple tips and place your home on the market with confidence!
Thank you to Barbara Slavkin of Barbara Slavkin Interiors LLC; Mary Gettinger, Margie Kerckhoff and Susan O’Neill of Coldwell Banker Gundaker and Jeanne Huber and Ellen Wortham of JE Design Groupfor their tip contributions.
