My Real Estate Blog

Here are 10 simple things to think about when you have your home on the market:

1) Declutter  The National Association of Realtors suggests that your first course of action should be removing clutter. The reasoning behind this is simple. Clutter distracts the mind and it distracts the imagination. A potential buyer needs to be able to see themselves and their own style in your home.

2) Clean  In the same sense that decluttering is removing "you" from the home, cleaning is removing your grimy mark. Have carpets cleaned, wax the floors, and remove any odors of pets or smoking.

3. Bathrooms  A bathroom that is clean and full of comfort is appealing to most every buyer. Arrange new towels and rugs, as well as burn fresh smelling candles. Consider adding rich decor, such as paintings.

4. Windows   Be sure that during your cleaning and decluttering, you don't forget to wash your windows. This way buyers will be able to focus their attentions on the beautiful grounds of your property, as opposed to the spots on the glass.

5. Lights  Burned out bulbs can make rooms look dark and dingy. Consider buying eco-friendly fluorescent or LED lights for use in your home.

6. Minor Repairs  There are buyers who are turned off by even minor repairs. They see that loose cabinet door or that warped deck board as a two-fold evil. Either the house has been poorly cared for with bigger repairs waiting for discovery under the surface, or that the home may be too much work for them.

7. The Yard   For many buyers, a yard is an extension of the home. Be sure that your yard is freshly mowed and any debris, trash, or clutter are put away. A great way to make flower beds appear neat and well tended is to add mulch. Clean off sidewalks with a quick powerwash.

8. Seasonal Color  Even if you aren't a garden guru, you can still plant low maintenance flowers in beds and pots. Some examples of low maintenance flowering plants are: petunias, pansies, and vincas.

9. Pets   We all love our pets, sometimes like they're our own children. But, in a perfect world, they would be safely at a friend's house or kennel during showings. While you're at it, take your children and yourself out of the home during the showing as well!

10. Your Valuables  It would be nice to think that no potential buyer would steal from your home, but it could happen. Be sure that anything easily removed is locked away for safe keeping. I have my lock boxes set up to send me an email when a listing is shown.  In 8 years, knock on wood, I've never had anything taken from a listing but I know it happens.