When you decide to put your home on the market, it becomes more than your home.  It becomes a product that is competing with many others.  Here are some tips that will help you make yours as appealing as possible to the most buyers, and more desirable than similarly priced houses:

Don't sabotage your chances to sell by neglecting the outside.  It won't matter how nice your home is if you can't get them to come in. 

Yard.   This is the first impression a buyer will have of your home.  Make sure your lawn is neat and well maintained.  Adding some colorful flowers can make it look special.  It's easy to go overboard, but you don't have to spend a lot to make a big difference.

Front Door.   The entrance to your home should be welcoming to visitors.  If it is in poor condition you should replace it, or maybe a fresh coat of paint and/or new hardware is all you need.  If decorating, keep it simple.

Exterior.  Problem areas need to be addressed.  Buyers will notice anything that is in disrepair, so be sure to inspect and correct any issues with roof, siding, gutters, etc.  Paint if you need to, and don't forget to clean your windows.

Great!  They want to see the interior, so remember these points for showing your home at it's best:

Unclutter and Remove Excess Furniture.  This will make your rooms look larger!  Don't forget your closets....if they are crowded buyers will perceive that storage space is limited.  Thinking of storing it in the basement or attic?  Don't you want them to appreciate the space there as well?  Consider an offsite storage solution instead.

Depersonalize.  Removing personal items will make it easier for potential buyers to envision their own items in the home and mentally start moving in.  Yes, this means your treasured family photos too!  You really want to keep them to a minimum when marketing your house.  You will be moving, right?  Why not begin packing these things safely now?

Odors.  Smoke and pet odors can be deal killers.  They need to be removed.... attempts to cover them won't work, and you may need a professional cleaning service to help you.  If you don't smell anything, ask someone who will be honest with you.  A word about air fresheners - some of these can be offensive as well so choose carefully.

Neutralize.  Appeal to the largest audience by choosing neutral colors.  It's your safest bet.  Studies show that most people do not want to paint, so don't assume they are willing to do so at the risk of losing those buyers.

Decorating.  Keep it simple, less is more when selling.  Fresh flowers are a nice touch.  You should think more in terms of staging than decorating, which means you are showcasing the house, not the stuff.  Stay away from collections (three or more of anything)...one or two well-placed items is much more effective. 

Cleanliness.  This is an obvious one, but bathrooms and kitchens should always be ready for inspection and require the most effort to keep sparkling clean.  Clear the countertops, and take all the magnets off the refrigerator.  Reducing the stuff will make it easier to keep clean for last minute showings.  Don't forget the dust and spider webs in the hard to reach places.  I find this in even the neatest homes.  You may not be able to see the top of the refrigerator....but someone else might.

Lighting and Atmosphere.  You will want good lighting when showing your home.  Remember to turn on the lights (make sure to replace any bulbs that are burned out) and open blinds and curtains to let in natural light during the daytime.  Bake cookies or simmer some cinnamon on the stove for a pleasant smell.  Some soft classical music or jazz playing in the background is a nice touch.  Just remember you want to appeal to the biggest audience!

Happy Selling!

Courtesy of Ann Allen, e-Pro, SRES, ASP

BIRMINGHAM AREA REAL ESTATE

205.902.4868

Keller Williams

One Chase Corporation Drive, Suite 150

Hoover, AL  35244

Ann@AnnAllenTeam.com

© 2008 Ann Allen, All rights reserved