Even in a strong sellers' market, there are some things about your home that are a BIG TURN OFF to buyers. In order to get top dollar for your home, be sure to avoid these common mistakes:
1.Decor that is SO "YOU". Once potential home buyers are in the door, you want them to picture themselves living there, moving in and making it it THEIR home. As much as it may feel like it's killing you, take down the 'wall of fame' wedding, baby, and school photos, remove the religious icons, and put away the political memorabilia. Anything that takes their attention away from the space, and focuses it on your "stuff" should be boxed up for display in your next home. Keep in mind, any group of items that has more that 3 is called a "collection" and needs to be put away as well! Remember, you are selling your house, not auditioning for a new best friend.
2. Whoa, this place does not smell good! Whether it's furry friends, lingering cooking smells, dirty laundry - or dirty diapers -, be certain your home passes the sniff test! If you have litter boxes, clean them out and put them out of sight for showings. Have your place deep cleaned. You are trying to make your home as appealing to buyers as possible, so you may want to hold off on making that delicious cabbage soup for awhile. A little air freshener doesn't hurt, but don't think that a buyer will be fooled by scented oils and candles to cover up smells. Too many strong scents can backfire and be a turn off as well.
3. You are not a tour guide! So, you've cleaned and tidied up and the buyers are coming in 20 minutes. Now, SCRAM! The buyers will come with their Realtor to see your home, and the Realtor will show them around and make sure the home is securely locked when they leave. Buyers need to feel comfortable being able to discuss what they love, what they don't love, and what they may want to change without having you nearby eavesdropping. Trust me, it's best for all that you leave the house. If the buyers have questions, their broker will call your broker.
4. Finally, the KITCHEN… When buyers look at a home, where's the first place they usually go? THE KITCHEN. Think about it, the kitchen is the hub of your home. So, make sure that place is gleaming! scraps of food or spills on the counter and cooktop are BIG TIME turn offs, and dirty dishes are a NO NO! make sure that kitchen sink is fresh and shiny!
Keep these top tips in mind when you're selling, and I promise you buyers will love you for it!
I'm' Judy Ballard with Illustrated Properties. I'm living the great South Florida Life, and I want to help you do it, too!
