Not Exactly a New Idea -- But I'm Surprised I Don't See It Very Often

Good point.  Just as important, in my opinion, is for each seller to totally clean their home and get rid of all the clutter.  Organized closets  and pantries impress the buyers.  I tell my sellers when they list with me to start packing because my listings usually sell quickly.  I tell them to pack everything they don't need on a daily basis and neatly stack the boxes in the garage.  I have to tell them what items need to be removed from a room, even furniture rearranged or removed, if needed. It works.

Good point.  Just as important, in my opinion, is for each seller to totally clean their home and get rid of all the clutter.  Organized closets  and pantries impress the buyers.  I tell my sellers when they list with me to start packing because my listings usually sell quickly.  I tell them to pack everything they don't need on a daily basis and neatly stack the boxes in the garage.  I have to tell them what items need to be removed from a room, even furniture rearranged or removed, if needed. It works.

You are so right!!! This can make the difference between getting it sold and having it sit! Don't give a decorating or carpet allowance either...get the work done!!! Good advice

Paul & Kay, Excellent ideas!

Here is another way of having the sellers look at thier home through a buyers eyes. Utilize a rating program where the seller pre-rates their home. You can rate the home as an outsider to compare what your seeing as their agent. Sellers will be a bit more positive but most will see the flaws if they are honest with themselves. Plus it's a great tool to utilize before the initial meeting for preparing for the listing presentation. Gives you a chance to have the CMA together and provide an organized presentation at the first meeting.

http://www.rateahome.com/Documents/SellerStart.aspx

 

The home inspection prior to putting the home on the market is great.  I  also asked my seller to have one done because little questions keep popping up from potential buyers.  In this market, there can be no doubts in a buyer's mind.  The other things that I think are really important, no grime on switch plates, trim, baseboards.  Sparkling clean bathrooms and airfreshners.

tthese are the little things that let the buyer know how well has the home been maintained.

 

Paul, I'm surprised this is not done very often as well.  It's a great idea, though, and just the edge a seller needs to set his home apart from the rest.

Thanks for the reminder; in these tough times, every little bit helps.