Getting your home ready for sale is no easy task. However, it
makes all the difference and will result in a
higher sale price.Even if you have to spend a few thousand dollars
to get it to where you need it. Think about it, with average sale
prices over $500k, its not hard to imagine a presentable staged
home increasing your homes value by as much as 5% or more. Roll
your sleeves up & lets get started!
Remove clutter Start by getting rid of
everything you are not taking with you – call1-800-GOTJUNK or similar type services
for worthless items. Include tax deductible
donationsincludingbooks, clothing & furniture for items not worth
selling. Next, box up everything you do not need for the next two
or three months and keep in a storage room.
Personal Items Personal items, which seems
to be the hardest task when making a move. Although artwork
and somedecorative items make a
place look welcoming, too many make a homelook cluttered. If you
are unsure, ask an outsider, maybe your realtor to be honest with
you. Remember theless is more school of decorating is best when
moving – a few family photos on your side tables, not the family
tree. Any furniture that looks shoved into a corner or hangs out
into a doorway, move or store. Make sure there is a clear walk-way
through your rooms.
Paint A nice fresh
coat of paint can do wonders. Many times the trim can be cleaned or
just touched up. Stray away
frompurple accent walls, red bathrooms, brown kitchens…
Remember, you are catering to a large audience now.
Staging your home If staging is a financial possibility, and your broker
suggests it, my advice is do it. You can go online and rent only
what you need. You dont necessarily need to hire a professional
service if you think you can handle it.
Cleaning Up Just before you open
house, make sure the place is clean (don’t forget, clean your
windows too), get nice fresh flowers or eucalyptus, a scented
candle. A few other important tips:
- Make all beds like you are in a
bed-making contest! - Straighten you drapes/shades
(opening them equally on all windows) - Fold towels in bathroom like a
hotel room - Straighten pillows on the beds and
furniture - Arrange equally spaced all Dining,
kitchen chairs and stools - Clear counter best you can (even
if just for day) - Open some windows and let in fresh
air
The Take Away The time and money
spent is worth it. After all, Its your house! It is the most
expensive purchase & sale of your life! Now you are ready to make
it the most successful one. You are ready to go!
Brian Back has been
with Gibson Sotheby’s International Real Estate since 1992. His
real estate experience began in 1987 and has led him to become
involved in both residential sales & development. He specializes in
both established and emerging neighborhoods in and around the city
of Boston. In addition to his real estate experience, Brian holds a
degree in interior design from the Art Institute (Ft. Lauderdale
Fl.). He knows first hand what it is like to be a customer having
both developed and sold many properties in the city of Boston and
surrounding neighborhoods.