The Spring Market is almost here! That means that many are getting their homes ready to list and sell. Spring is a great time to sell your property as Buyers are out in full force. But, there is some stiff competition out there. Your home needs to stand out among the rest, and should yield the best return on your investment. Here are some simple tips and tricks that you can do NOW (while it’s cold outside and you’re stuck at home) to get your property ready for sale:
1. Pack It Up!
It may seem a little crazy to start packing before you even list your home for sale, but this is a great first step in the inevitable staging of your home. Start to pack those knick-knacks and unnecessary items in your home and de-clutter your spaces. I’m not telling you to pack up all your dishes and eat off of paper plates until you move, but do try to make your spaces as free of extras as possible. Keep the essentials only. Remember, a Buyer wants to envision your home as their own. Help them realize that by going as bare as possible with your rooms. If you have a garage, use that as your temporary storage space, but start in the center. Keep a pathway around the walls of your garage for inspection purposes. It also helps with a Buyer’s mind frame to see boxes in the garage. It show that you’re ready to vacate! If you don’t plan on taking items to your new home, now is a great time to donate to your local thrift or charity.
2. Clean It Up!
Now is the perfect time for a DEEP clean. Even if you keep a pristine home, there are always some areas that can use some extra attention. If cleaning isn’t “your thing”, consider hiring a service. Many cleaning businesses offer one-time deep cleans. Then, consider keeping them on for maintenance cleaning until your home sells. If you’d rather clean yourself, here are some tips: Clean windows, bathroom mirrors, porcelain, stoves and stainless steel with a great product called “Dirtex”. It was recommended to me by a builder, and now I use it all the time. You can pick it up at the hardware store (It can even get paint out of carpet!). For a general multi-surface cleaner, fill a spray bottle with half white vinegar, half water and 2 drops of dawn dish soap. This can even freshen upholstery. Pay attention to areas in your wet rooms like behind the toilet, around faucets, behind and under appliances, and the backs of counters. Use your vacuum attachments to clean vents, ceiling corners, ceiling fans, crown moulding, baseboards, and the tops of doors and art frames. Nothing looks or smells better than a truly clean home!
3. Fix It Up!
4. Straighten It Up!
5. Call Me Up!
It’s never too early to consult with YOUR Realtor (That’s me!). Even if you’re not planning to list immediately, there are still a great many things we can strategize. I can make suggestions, help with planning, and view your home with fresh eyes. And, a consultation is complimentary! That way, when the time comes to list your property, you will be prepared. When you’re ready, we will professionally stage and photograph your property. If you have many of these items completed, you will avoid rushing to get your property showroom-ready before going live to market. I’m happy to come over! CALL ME!
Please note: If you don’t live in Northern Virginia, and you are considering selling your home, please don’t hesitate to reach out! I can interview and refer you to a QUALIFIED Realtor anywhere in the country! I’m happy to help!