Home sales are strong as buyers retreat to their homes. But not all homes are created equal, and buyers believe a move-in home is often the best option. But what is “move-in ready”? If you have lived in your home more than a few years, you will want to consider the significant turn-offs for potential buyers – and how to address them to get your home sold in the shortest time.
Some negatives might be obvious, but when we are looking at something all day, we miss things. Clutter of any kind – whether a bunch of stuff on tables or counters – is a major turn-off. Similarly, the perception that a home is dirty or not cared for leaves a buyer wondering what else might be wrong.
It’s always a good idea to put away items that indicate a personal interest. This category includes family photos, diplomas, political or religious memorabilia and commemorative items. Why? Buyers like to envision themselves in that space, and your stuff prevents them from doing that. Plus, it’s nice to protect your privacy a bit, right?
Obvious cooking and pet odors are a no-no, as well. If you have a house on the market or intend to, change your kitty litter more often and check out the newest kinds that minimize odors. While you are at it, consider pet hair issues, too.
Your house might have great bones, but if a buyer can’t see anything, the effect is lost. Evaluate your lighting. Increase wattage in your bulbs and add lighting if necessary – every room should ideally have multiple sources of lighting. Likewise, today’s buyers trend to lighter and sleeker window treatments, so open yours, push back the curtains or remove elaborate ones entirely.
At some point, most of us had the trendy accent wall, or decided to paint a room a strong color. Today’s buyers and trends tend to focus on white or off-white walls, and a neutral palette again shows buyers the potential of your home for them to live in and make their own. Generally, painting a room is pretty simple and inexpensive.
Overwhelmed about getting ready to sell or just making some updates? Get in touch and we can help!