What's the true secret to a successful home sale? Is it location, size, design, price or presentation?
Of course, it's a combination of all of these facets of a property. The most powerful factor will depend on the individual buyer.
However, there's one element homeowners often underestimate despite the advice of their agent: the importance of a lasting first impression.
A well-kept, inviting property can truly make a difference when trying to attract the right buyer and getting top dollar.
Maintaining your home so it's always in pristine order and ready for buyers is not easy if you have a busy life, and especially if you have a young family.
We all know juggling priorities while your home is on the market can be a challenge, but it doesn't have to be overwhelming. I've put together a list of seven easy tasks you can tackle each week to ensure your home always looks its best for potential buyers.
Less You, More New: Declutter your surfaces, closets, and storage areas. This creates a sense of spaciousness and allows buyers to envision their own belongings in the home. It'll give you a head start when it comes to packing everything in boxes to move out.
Sparkling Floors: No matter the type of flooring, clean floors elevate a home's appeal. Regular sweeping, vacuuming or mopping can work wonders.
Fresh Linen: Tap into the style of five-star hotels with crisp white linens and towels. That luxurious vibe is relatively cheap to do but delivers a big impression of luxury.
Must Dust: Regular dusting brightens surfaces, removes allergens, and adds a touch of polish to your home. Be sure to pay extra attention to areas that tend to gather dust quickly.
Bathroom Bliss: There's no room for compromise in the bathroom. Ensure it is sparkling. Scrub the toilet, sink, and shower/tub, and wipe down mirrors and fixtures. If buyers think it needs an update, that's going to hurt your negotiation position.
Clean Kitchen: Like the bathrooms, you have to make the kitchen super-pristine. Start by throwing out pots, pans and utensils that don't get used. This will free up storage space. Don't litter the countertops with gadgets and appliances. Store them away so you have an uncluttered kitchen.
Bonus Tip: Curb appeal really counts! Remember, the exterior of your home is the first thing potential buyers see. Maintain your lawn, keep your garden tidy, and clear pathways for a warm welcome.
