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Peak house hunting time is upon us. Buyers around the Mid-Atlantic are planning their next moves, and Northern Virginia and Loudoun remain hot. Even in a seller’s market, upgrading a few details can bring a surprisingly large bump in price. Here’s a look at the top five things to think about before you put your home on the market
#1 Deep Clean and Declutter
You want to create a sense of openness that allows buyers to envision all the possibilities when they walk into your home. Avoid too many personal items so buyers can imagine themselves in the space. Get rid of clutter to create a sense of tidiness and airiness.
- Clear kitchen counters and put away small appliances.
- Remove personal items from the bathrooms.
- Remove intrusive or unnecessary furniture from living spaces and bedrooms.
- Clean windows, light switches, and light fixtures–all the grubby spots you’ve gotten used to that jump out at buyers.
Selling your home is a terrific opportunity to downsize. Many sellers embrace the experience not just for resale but also as a way to start fresh in their new space.
#2 Create Curb Appeal
Your yard and exterior are the first things buyers see when they visit your home. A spruced-up exterior is an excellent way to make a terrific first impression.
- Clean and declutter patios and outdoor living spaces.
- Brighten your entryway with small touches. Details like a new doormat or planter with colorful flowers can make a big impression.
- Make sure the lawn is neatly mowed.
- Clean up the yard and tidy flower beds.
- If your exterior is dingy, a powerwash can brighten and refresh.
- Make sure your front door and shutters are clean and freshly painted.
#3 Take Care of Minor Repairs
Take care of the little things you may have missed that might jump out to a buyer.
- Clean or replace light fixtures. Great lighting brightens your home and makes it seem bigger.
- Patch cracks in walls and ceilings.
- Repair broken appliances.
- Repair gutters and exterior damage.
#4 Clean or Replace Carpets
Buyers love hardwood floors, but carpets aren’t necessarily a deal-breaker if they’re neat and clean. Dirty or damaged carpets and smoke or pet smells can be a turn-off. It pays to invest in professional carpet cleaning if carpets are in good shape. If your carpets are stained, soiled, or damaged, you can replace them with a low-cost but appealing synthetic fiber. Choose neutral colors that create a sense of light and space. Many buyers will want to replace carpeting no matter how new it is. But fresh, clean floors are vital to an excellent first impression.
#5 Add A Fresh Coat of Paint
If your walls are scuffed or dirty, a fresh coat of paint creates a clean, appealing look. Take the opportunity to neutralize any strong colors. That dark or vibrant shade you love may be a turn-off to potential buyers. White, off-white, beige or gray work best in living areas, while neutral blues give kitchens and bathrooms a cool, clean look.
Listing Your Home? Your Seller’s Agent Is Your Best Asset
A smart seller’s agent knows which upgrades can mean significant bumps in the asking price. As always, your agent’s goal is to get you the most money in the shortest amount of time. Minor, inexpensive updates can offer an impressive return on investment. One of your agent’s roles is to help you look at your home through a buyer’s eyes and find areas you can improve with minimal effort and investment. Yvonne Holland’s experience, depth of knowledge, and attention to detail make her one of Northern Virginia’s top agents. In addition to her role as a savvy seller’s agent, Yvonne is an Accredited Staging Professional. She includes a complimentary home staging consultation for all of her listings. Yvonne’s eye for detail helps sellers focus on the elements that make their listings shine.
