Do you have a new Door County listing? Are you getting ready to place your home on the market? Based on the most frequently asked questions about how to get a home ready for the Door County market, I've got a few suggestions for new Door County property sellers. These tips aren't earth-shattering (mostly common sense), but they are tried and true reminders of what we can do TOGETHER to help get a home ready for market, staging and waiting for the sale.
1. Selling an Older home? I'm probably going to suggest a home inspection so we don't have any nasty surprises greet us after you've completed the property condition report. While it will cost $350.00 to $500.00 in this area, it may save thousands of dollars in the long run by being able to accurately disclose conditions. Alternatively, you may find something that is having an impact on the condition of your home that you were unaware of and that needs your immediate attention.
2. Curb appeal. Curb appeal is vital to getting people to look at your property! To help with curb appeal, please keep the lawn mowed, any shrubbery groomed, and perhaps plant some annuals to brighten the look of your yard. This does not have to be an expensive process (and fresh air and exercise are great for pre-move jitters). Does your exterior need paint or a pressure wash? While not inexpensive, this may be the quickest manner in which to get attention to your new Door County listing.
3. Before you clean, De-Clutter. If you're serious about getting your home ready for market, it's time for serious decluttering. Remember, you're also getting ready to move. As such, the clothes you haven't worn in two years can go to a consignment shop or charitable organization. Ditto the old furniture in the basement if you're not planning on using it in your new residence. For serious treasures, consider renting some inexpensive storage space (make sure to insure). Get those magnets off the refrigerator, and extra appliances off the counter. Less is more.
4. Clean!! Take a long, strong look at your house as an outsider. Certain things about our homes drive ALL of us crazy (my pet peeves are dirty kitchen appliances). Have the carpets cleaned. Wash windows. Clean draperies. If you hire out for an initial "big" cleaning, it may be easier for you to take care of the day-to-day issues (especially after you've decluttered). We have some exceptional services for deep cleaning in Door County.
5. Fresh paint. Painting is the easiest, least expensive way to brighten any room. If your teenage daughter has painted her room violent pink, it's time to make it an eye-easy eggshell white. My favorite listing story may be one of my old listing that had a bedroom with black walls. Luckily, the buyers could see around that feature (because our Seller didn't want to paint). Painting will not only look good, it will smell newer. And if you can get rid of some dated wallpaper at the same time, all the better.
6. Bath fixtures--tarnished faucets, tired light fixtures--can be easily and relatively inexpensively done to update any bathroom. Even a new toilet seat can make a difference.
7. Odors and Pets. As your broker, I'm going to keep some Oust, Fabreeze or like-minded product with me prior to showing just in case there are cooking or pet odors. And please secure your pets (or just take them for a quick swim while I'm showing your property ).
8. Don't Forget the Garage. While low on some priority lists, the garage is probably one of the first things any man will want to look at, so make sure it's tidy and shows to its best advantage, also. A good sweeping and removal of road debris helps.
9. Every Picture Tells a Story. We all love our families and showcase photos of the good times we have had. However, we both want prospective purchasers to focus on a possible future in your home, not on your past. So while you don't have to put away every photo, try to depersonalize a bit so a buyer can envision him or herself in your space. And don't forget the refrigerator--one of the easiest ways to freshen the kitchen is to remove all those notes, business cards, magnets and everything else that's been on there for a few years (see Item #3).
10. Showtime! If you have a spectacular view of the Bay, I'm going to aim for showing the home in the afternoon when the sun is lower. If you are lakeside, we'll try for bright morning showings to maximize the view of Lake Michigan. With all homes, we'll ensure they are well-lit and inviting. Keeping our fingers crossed for a quick and successful sale.
New listing? I've got a few suggestions to help sell your Door County property...contact me anytime. For Door County Buyer Tips, check here.
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