Prepping your home for sale in the Highland Park IL Real Estate Market does take some work and effort on the seller's part. As a Real Estate Professional in Highland Park Illinois I regularly field calls from sellers requesting market evaluations. The process normally works like this:1. I get a call from a seller
2. I go to their house for a quick tour and conversation
3. I return with a formal market evaluation and make recommendations for market preparation
4. House goes on the market
Seems rather simple for a seller - they make a phone call, meet with a Real Estate Professional (maybe two) and they put their home on the market.
WRONG!!! Truth be told it really is not so simple for the seller - there is almost always work to be done before the house gets listed.
A seller needs to help by making the house look the best that it can. Here are some suggestions:
1. De-clutter - This means everything from from get rid of piles of old magazines and junk mail that has piled up, to getting rid of old clothes that are over-stuffing your closets and old toys that your kids have outgrown. I always tell my clients "If you don't plan on moving with it - sell it or donate!" Craigslist and Freecycle are great websites to sell or give things away, or if you have the time and motivation you can schedule a garage sale. I have a list of area non-profits that accept donation drop-offs or will schedule a pick-up with you for oversize items. If you can't bear to part with your stuff consider renting storage space.
2. Clean off the countertops in the kitchen and remove all magnets from the refrigerator. Clean the interior and exterior of all cabinets and appliances. You don't want your house to be remembered as the one with the filthy oven or grimy pantry.
3. Make small repairs as needed. I have a handyman who will take on small and large jobs. In winter keep your driveways and sidewalks clear of snow, and in warm weather months make sure to maintain your landscaping.
4. Paint a room or two for a fresher look. I have a painter who is very reasonable and I am happy to help you select a suitable neutral shade for your space.
5. Re- arrange some furniture and/or get rid of some. I have a stager on my team who will come to your home and rearrange furniture to make the most of each room (there is a small fee for this service).
6. Have carpets professionally cleaned if needed. I have a wonderful carpet cleaner recommendation. Send curtains and area rugs to the dry cleaner as needed.
7. Do a very through cleaning so the house smells fresh when a perspective buyer walks in. On the flip side, don't overdo it with home fragrance; be mindful that your beloved room spray may set off someone's allergic fit, and that will definitely color their memory of your home.
8. Get fresh flowers and a few plants, but keep tchockes to a minimum. 9.Make sure that all of your light fixtures are outfitted with the appropriate wattage and flattering bulbs. If you have a dark room consider adding lighting to brighten it up or hang a decorative mirror to reflect natural light.
Now your house is ready to go on the market. You can sit back and let me your Highland Park IL REALTOR do the rest of the work. Remember - first impressions are crucial as you only get one chance so do it right! Take the time and money to get your house in its best condition. You'll be glad you did, and you will actually be kicking yourself for not doing it sooner as you will really enjoy the crispness of your home.
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