THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2011
If you are a home owner trying to sell in a today’s market, you may feel like you’ve hit the bottom of the real estate food chain. Instinct whispers to lower your price, but there are several techniques you can use when listing your home to generate positive interest and nail the sale.
 First, when you buy real estate, you’re buying a home. When you sell real estate, you’re selling your house. The difference between a home and a house is the emotion attached. In order to successfully detach from your home and successfully sell your house, you must first remove the emotional attachment.
A is for Anonymous: Your home needs to look like anyone could live there. There are no “boy rooms” or “girl rooms” in an anonymous house. There are no family photos, no trophies and no souvenirs. You’re going to end up packing everything up anyway, so start before you list it. You want buyers to be able to view your home as their own, and they can’t do that with your giant tuba in the corner and your mother’s doll collection in the china closet.
B is for Buying the Listing: Next, beware of any Realtor trying to “buy” your listing. If you visit with three agents and two give you close price estimates and the third is much higher, the third Realtor is most likely trying to “buy” your listing. By convincing you they can sell your house for higher, they are more likely to get your business, but will end up talking you down later. No Realtor can actually make your home worth more than it actually is. Instead, choose an agent based on their customer service, honesty, and willingness to work with you.
C is for Cleaning the Clutter: Get rid of it. All of it. Yes, I said all of it. Anything that detracts from the space or draws the eye should be removed. Countertops and tables should be completely clear. But keep in mind, potential buyers will be opening all cupboards and drawers, so those need to be organized and clean as well. Closets should be cleaned out and large furniture should be moved out. This may take some time and adjustment, but in order to display your space in the best light possible, it might be clear of clutter. After the clutter is gone, break out the elbow grease and a sponge. It might be worth it to hire a professional cleaning service for a one-time deep clean. From the baseboards, to the ceiling, every surface needs to be cleaned, scrubbed and shined. This process will do wonders for the overall look, feel and smell of your home.
D is for Doors and Dogs: A potential buyer is going to open every door, drawer and light switch, make sure these are clean, free of cracks or dents and open and close easily. Make sure there isn’t honey left on the cupboard handle and no “jimmying” is required at the back door. Lastly, if you have a dog, or a cat, or any furry friend living with you, do your best to minimize odors. You are probably used to Sparky’s scent, but a potential buyer will smell that dog and head for the door. Keep litter boxes clean, let the dog stay outside more than usual, and shampoo the carpets.
Even in a buyer’s market, as a smart home owner, a little extra time on your part will pay off in the end. These tips are sure to attract the perfect buyer who can’t wait to make your house their home.
By Matt Reynolds - Google+
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