Top 5 Ways to Attract the Right Buyer for Your House

 

1.     Fix it and Clean it.

 Comb through as if YOU were the Buyer and prepare a list of every nickel and dime fix-up you can find.  Items that need a little TLC loom larger in the eye of the Buyer and chip away at perceived value.  Challenge yourself to clear every little deferred maintenance item on the list and CLEAN the house within an inch of its life!  Be sure to pressure wash the front steps and entry way.

 

2.    Pare down, and Spiff up

 While you are cleaning, or better yet before you start, part with everything you can.  Your mission is to lighten the ship – throw things overboard – neutralize and declutter.  Create 3 piles: THROW AWAY, GIVE AWAY AND STORE AWAY. Go visit a model home to get an idea of how empty a “gorgeous”  model home appears.   You want your closets and drawers to look as if you have too much space – sparse.  Take down personal items and photos and pack them up. 

 Then if you find you have carpet that is worn or soiled, consider replacing it.  Consider repainting in neutral tones, change out brass fixtures for silver-toned or dark-toned ones.  Take a look at your front entry door hardware. Improving the look of the front entry is one of the most important and dollar-wise changes you can make.  Paint the door if needed.  Add a new  mat and a potted plant.  Check the doorbell and make sure it is functioning.

 

3.    Offer Incentives

 Consider offering a dollar amount toward Buyer closing costs. 

 Provide a home warranty. 

 Pay  for a year’s worth of HOA fees.

 Pay for a year-long membership to the community pool or local club

 

4.   Know the Market and Price it Right

 Ask me for help with this.

 

5.   Make it Accessible and Easy to Show

 If a Buyer cannot see your home, they will not buy it.

This is not a permanent way of living, it is something you do to make sure you don’t miss out on a buyer who may be in town for only a day to find and choose a home.  Buyers who are serious and in a hurry, usually plan a full day of showings with an agent and then narrow the list to 2 or 3 to review and choose from.   If you miss out on their first tour, they will probably choose from what they have seen without returning another time to see your home.