Selling Your Home -Things you should do

The market has come back.  When I receive a call from a former client about selling, the first thing that crosses my mind is “Are they going to listen?” I am at such an advantage!  Most Brokers sit in the office.  I’m still actively going out seeing my clients and I’m not shy about telling them what needs to be done.  I also do not take a listing that I can’t sell.  My agents know that I will give them grief if they don’t do the same.  When you are looking for a Realtor to list your home,  “Don’t think that the Realtor that agrees with you on everything is the right one!  Don’t hire him or her because they said, “your home is beautiful!”  “Hire the one that says if you do these things, you will get the highest sale price.”

Electing not to do the repairs and or do the necessary upgrades will cost you more than if you do them.   1- it will take much longer to sell, increasing your carrying cost and 2- you will make less profit than if you did the improvements. I tell my clients; this should not be an option.

Here is a brief list of things to do if you are selling your home:
1- Roof – will it need to be replaced in the next 5 years?  New roof will put money in your pocket versus losing potential buyers because they don’t want to purchase a home that is going to require a major expenditure within the first 5 years,
2- A/C – Good condition is a must
3- Kitchen – has it been updated, are the  counter tops granite or formica and  are the appliances newer or in good condition
4- Interior & exterior paint – don’t paint it the colors you like!  Go look at some model homes – use those colors
5- Flooring – new, clean & appealing.  Avoid cheap laminates and clean the tile and carpets if you’re not replacing them.
6- Popcorn – whenever possible replace with textured ceilings.
7- Bathrooms – new vanities, mirrors and lights are an instant payback.  If the tile in the shower needs replacing or regrouting – do it.  If the tub is turquois, replace it.
8- Front of Home – make it appealing.  You don’t have to spend a fortune,  but trimming your trees and bushes and adding some color will add value instantly and most importantly, they’re excited to enter the home.
9- Backyard – make sure it is appealing,  if the home is at a higher price point, adding pavers, a pergola or a gazebo are always plusses. At the very least, keep it clean and trimmed and add some color.