By proactively getting your home ready for showings and open houses before putting your home on the market, you can significantly increase its appeal to potential buyers and improve your chances of a successful sale at the price and time frame you want. Ahead of showings starting, I recommend you:
1. Deep Clean: Start by giving your home a thorough cleaning. Dust, vacuum, mop floors, clean windows, wipe down surfaces, and pay attention to details like baseboards and light fixtures. A clean home will make a better impression on potential buyers.
2. Make Repairs: Fix any minor issues such as leaky faucets, loose doorknobs, or chipped paint. These small repairs can make a big difference in the perceived value of your home and can prevent potential buyers from being deterred by easily fixable problems.
3. Declutter and Depersonalize: Remove personal items such as family photos, knick-knacks, soap dispensers, etc. Decluttering will make your space appear larger and allow potential buyers to envision themselves living there. Storing your extra furniture or decorations in your crawlspace, basement, or garage is a good option.
4. Enhance Curb Appeal: First impressions matter, so it's important to make sure the exterior of your home is appealing. Make sure the walkway and entry are clean and inviting. In the summer: trim bushes, mow the lawn, hang flower baskets. In the winter: stay on top of your snow removal to maintain access to the front door and avoid ice to form in the high-traffic areas outside the home.
5. Highlight Key Features: Arrange furniture in a way that maximizes the flow of each room and highlights its functionality. Open curtains and blinds to let in as much natural light as possible. Bright, well-lit spaces appear larger and more inviting. Create cozy seating areas, set the dining table, and make the beds with fresh linens. Add tasteful decor accents such as throw pillows, rugs, and artwork to enhance visual appeal.
6. Secure Valuables: Before showings begin, it's essential to secure any valuable or personal items to prevent theft or damage. Lock away jewelry, electronics, important documents, and prescription medications. Consider storing these items in a safe or a locked closet that's off-limits to visitors.
7. Before each showing: Turn all the lights on and open blinds and curtains before each showing, so potential buyers walk into a well-lit home that will make a great first impression. Make sure everything is tidy, the beds are made, and kids toys are put away. Make sure the home temperature is comfortable, turn off any TVs or music, and remove your pets from the home.
Ensuring your home is ready to make an positive and memorable first impression is crucial to the successful sale of the home. You can always ask your agent's opinion on which repairs to take on or which items to store away, and your agent can also recommend professionals for cleaning, repairs, yard work, and more.