Cormac Sheehy, MD, RE/MAX Professional Partners
Every seller wants to sell their home quickly and every buyer wants to believe that the home they are looking at is the 'right one'.
There are a few things to keep in mind during the preparation stage before having viewings of your home. You need to begin this process with a positive mindset and one simple idea - 'this is not my home, it’s a house'.
Step 1 - The Basics
Declutter - if it’s not needed, remove it and put it in storage. Pack up the knick-knacks. Keep the countertops clear.
De-personalise - remove photographs and memorabilia. Remember this is going to be a blank canvas and a fresh start for someone else’s dreams. You want them to be able to imagine and visualise making their own memories here.
Deep cleaning - clean the home inside out and upside down. Clean inside the cupboards. Have the bathroom(s ) sparkling. Remove spider webs, dust bunnies, wash the windows, dust the furniture, clean the carpets etc. Don’t forget about the outside, cut the grass, have the place tidy, put unnecessary gardening supplies in the shed etc.
'Clean, Clear and Tidy'
Step 2 - Beyond the Basics
Painting walls - think neutral colours. If you have more off-beat colours bring them back to a more neutral colour. This allows the buyer to visualise a clean slate.
Change room decorations and themes - jungle themed room? All pink or blue kid’s room? For now, redecorate and turn it into something more versatile like a study or home office. Keep it simple.
Minor repairs - these repairs are not supposed to break the bank. If it’s a cheap and easy fix, then fix it. Repair squeaky doors, holes in the wall, leaking taps, broken cabinet doors and anything else that could deter buyers.
Step 3 - Way Beyond Basics
Major renovations - need to replace the carpet? Add better flooring? Remodel the bathroom? These more expensive repairs will add value to your home and are projects worth considering. A balance of a finished yet new project can add extra value to your home and buyers may be willing to pay more for something they don’t have to do.
Other repairs - with these larger repairs it is important to understand any work you put into the home should add value to the home’s final sale price. If not, it’s not worth it.
Helpful Tips
Think of this process as a head start for moving out. Even though some repairs seem minor, they can become major factors in determining whether the buyer will actually buy. Pay particular attention to rooms that smell - odours are a complete turn-off.
Don’t forget about the outside, this is the first impression. Scrutinise the home. If you were a buyer would you want to buy this home? You have lived here and you know all the pros and cons. Highlight the pros. And help eliminate the cons.
