If you're considering selling your home, you likely already know that your to-do list is lengthy. There's much to consider before putting your property on the market: from vetting great real estate agents (*quietly raises many capable hands*) to making repairs and boosting your curb appeal, you'll want to show your home at its very best and ensure that no detail is missed in this oft-stressful undertaking.
As part of the selling process, you'll probably have to host an open house (or broker open, or several private showings), by which we mean, you'll be opening your doors to many potential buyers...and a handful of looky-loos. There are countless ways to get your home in tip-top shape, so that those walking through can both appreciate it as it is and envision a life of their own in the space.
Following the few simple steps below will ensure that your home shine during showings and increase the likelihood that you'll sell quickly for the asking price.
Tend to the Usual Suspects: We won't spend too much time on this, but the much-talked-about steps to preparing are all in play here: you should be sure to de-clutter, stage if possible, tend to any obvious repairs, clean the home thoroughly, open the windows, and light the home in such a way that it feels warm and welcoming. But, we also highly suggest going the extra mile...
Create an Experience: In addition to the essentials, homeowners have an opportunity to shape the first impression of every passer-through. That could mean lighting some candles (try to find scents that aren't overwhelming, sweet, or too perfumey), but other smells can also elicity the distinct feeling of "being at home"—consider baking cookies to set out for visitors, so the smell wafts through the open house. Letting natural light flood the home is great, but if it's dark out, consider using lamps to illuminate certain areas and lend coziness, rather than relying on bright overheads. Light a fire, if that's an option for you, and always put on some nice music at a level that brings comfort—this can soften the awkward silence that comes with a bunch of strangers touring a home that isn’t theirs.
Think Aspirationally: What do you aspire to in your own home? Are there things you've been meaning to do, but just haven't gotten to? Maybe you've been wanting to clear your counter and find alternative homes for appliances, sponges, or the paper towels. Now's the time! Removing unnecessary items for visitors creates space for them envision how they’d like it to look...but moreover, doing this task might inspire you to pare down or feel/experience your home in a different way (and maybe you'll be inspired to carry that feeling to your next space). In the most obvious closet spaces—especially those that visitors might be inclined to open or check—consider creating more space by "staging" the shelves a bit. This could lend the feeling of organization, which in turn, may also be aspirational for potential buyers. Bonus: while an over-crowded closet may send the message that there isn't enough room for storage, a staged one with a bit of empty space might just say, "look how much room there is in here."
Add Some Plant-Life: We can't really overstate this one—fresh flowers and happy plants can make a significant impact on a home, regardless of its current condition or price point. In addition to making your home feel inviting and alive, plants and flowers lend aesthetic appeal, and create a sense of calm, cleanliness, and well-being. A well-placed succulent or arrangement can prevent the space from feeling too sparse (while not overcrowding it), and help to reflect the personality of the home. Moreover, plants and flowers can subtly symbolize growth/new beginnings and lend a sense of potential, which could resonate with buyers who are making a big change and moving into a new chapter of life.
Small details will highlight your property’s potential and evoke those emotions that help buyers envision their lives in your space. As always, we’re here to help, and we come equipped with years of experience on both sides of every transaction. We're happy to advise and here when you need us!
Homeworks Property Lab, 66 Exchange Pl., SLC P: 801.810.8696
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