Did you ever wonder why Real Estate Agents get around 3% more for their houses?
A lot of theories are suggested (See the book FEAKONOMICS) but did you
consider the real reason is that they take their own advice and make the property
show well for the price. Below is an Agents advice for you...
Consider what you would want to see if you're a buyer. Make your home show like a
Model Home. Buyers do not generally want to do extensive work when purchasing.
INSIDE:
1. Clear out all unnecessary objects throughout the house. Make the home look
comfortable but NOT cluttered. If a room is small, remove some furniture to make it feel more
roomy.
2. The kitchen is an important room that needs to be tidy and functional. If the kitchen
countertops are in poor condition then order new formica tops from Home Depot (or other Home
store) they are inexpensive and will dramatically improve the look. An uncluttered space helps
the buyer mentally move their own things into your kitchen.
3. In the bathrooms, remove any unnecessary items from countertops, tubs, shower stalls and
commode tops. Make sure that the tubs and sinks are clean and unstained.
4. Review the house inside room by room, and clean windows, floors and carpets and paint
rooms that need painting.
5. Don't worry about cluttered closets or garages. People expect that. How many people keep
their cars in garages anyway!
6. During "showings" turn on all lights and lamps. Lamps provide a warm glow and make the
house look more inviting.
7. Have music on at a low level during the day for all viewings. Classical music makes people
feel more sophisticated. Additionally, the smell of vanilla and orange makes people feel more at
home, so bake a few cookies! On the other hand avoid cooking things that have really strong
odors...
8. A splash of red in a room is supposed to make people feel at home. Consider a red candle,
maybe with a pleasant scent.
9. If you have ceiling tiles they often get rusty water marks on them, consider spraying with an
aerosol spray paint (matt white or Kills, for example).
OUTSIDE:
1. Go around the perimeter of the house remove any garbage and untidy messes,
including decks and patio's.
2. Make minor repairs to gutters and roof. If your house needs a new roof, or significant repairs
make sure that your Real Estate Agent knows this and includes the disclosure in the MLS listing.
You will be safer making a disclosure than trying to get away with it, it is likely the Seller's
inspection will discover the problem and the sale could fall through at a later stage. Also, if you're
prepared to pay for the repairs SAY SO.
3. Look at all plants and shrubs... prune bushes and trees. Keep plants from blocking windows.
4. Weed and mulch all planting areas. Keep lawn cut and tidy. Remove any dead plants or
shrubs.
5. Check paint condition of the house - especially the front door and trim.