The busiest season in the real estate market is upon us. Are you one of the many homeowners who will put their homes on the market this spring? You’re going to face more competition at this time of year, so it’s essential that you’re prepared. Here’s a rundown of what you need to do to get your home ready for a spring sale.
Make Repairs
It’s easy to live with all those little problems as the years go by. But now is the time to tackle the small repairs on your to-do list. Buyers will be looking at every square inch of your home. You can believe that they will make note of any leaky faucets, squeaky doors, or malfunctioning lights. Be sure to set aside time to tackle all these repairs so that you can get the best price for your home.
Spruce Up the Exterior
Spring is the best time of the year to make the exterior of your home look inviting. Take a weekend to clean up any debris left over from winter like branches and fallen leaves. Power wash exterior walls, decks, porches, and sidewalks. Patch cracks in your driveway. Plant colorful annuals in flowerbeds and add a few pots of flowers near the front door. You might also consider swapping out your mailbox, welcome mat, and house numbers for something new. Paint your front door a welcoming color that catches the eye. A little curb appeal can go a long way.
Clean Up Inside
If you’re selling your home, then you need to put your spring-cleaning in overdrive. Make it sparkle! Deep clean carpets and floors and wash all the windows. Clean out the garage and basement. Go through all drawers, cabinets and closets and donate unused items. Your home needs to be clutter-free and there’s no use dragging things you don’t use to your next home. Are you feeling a little overwhelmed by this particular job? Then don’t be afraid to outsource your cleaning project to a professional.
Eliminate Bad Smells
It’s easy to get used to what your home smells like so you no longer notice it. While you’re cleaning, make note of any unpleasant odors you may encounter. In fact, have a trusted friend or family member do a walk-through of your home. Ask them if they notice any unusual smells, like pet odors or cigarette smoke. Unpleasant smells can be very off-putting to buyers, so you must tackle them right away. Use cleaning products suitable for each type of odor, and open all the windows to air out your home. When showing your home, you can lightly scent the air with candles, essential oil diffusers, stovetop potpourri, or even baking cookies.
Neutralize Your Décor
Lastly, it’s so important that potential buyers are able to imagine living in your home. No matter how attached you are to your own sense of style, you need to detach and think like a buyer. Repaint rooms in neutral colors like off-white, beige, light blue, and light gray. Pack away any personal items like photographs or sports memorabilia. If you have any bulky furniture, put it in storage. You want to make your home feel light, bright, and spacious.
