5 Tips to Prepare Your Home for Sale
Selling a home in this market may seem difficult for some homeowners but it's not impossible! If you're planning on selling your home in 2012, consider these five tips to get your home ready, doing so will increase its value and shorten your sales time.
1. Should I have a home inspection?
It all depends. If you have a newer home, say a house that was built within the last ten years, we don't think it's necessary for you to get your home inspected. However, if you have an older home and you know there are certain issues with the house (such as deferred maintenance), i.e. roof issues, electrical, plumbing or other. Be proactive and arrange a pre-sale home inspection. Find out if there are any skeletons in the closet sort-of-speak! For $250 to $400, an inspector will warn you about troubles that could make potential buyers balk. Make repairs before putting your home on the market. In some states, you may have to disclose what the inspection turns up. If you believe there may be dryrought or pest infestation, schedule a 'termite inspection' before you put your house on the market. It will be good to have all this information disclosed to the buyer.
2. Get replacement estimates
If your home inspection uncovers necessary repairs you can't fund, get estimates for the work. The figures will help buyers determine if they can afford the home and the repairs. Also hunt down warranties, guarantees, and user manuals for your furnace, washer and dryer, dishwasher, and any other items you expect to remain with the house.
3. Make minor repairs
Not every repair costs a bundle. Fix as many small problems-sticky doors, torn screens, cracked caulking, dripping faucets-as you can. These may seem trivial, but they'll give buyers the impression your house isn't well maintained. I am amazed at how little changes and repairs make a huge difference when selling a house.
4. Clear the clutter
This is a big one! Clear your kitchen counters of just about everything. Clean your closets by packing up little-used items like out-of-season clothes and old toys. Install closet organizers to maximize space. Put at least one-third of your furniture in storage. Especially large pieces such as entertainment centers and big televisions. Pack up family photos, knickknacks, and wall hangings to depersonalize your home. Store the items you've packed offsite or in boxes neatly arranged in your garage or basement.
5. Do a thorough cleaning
A clean house makes a strong first impression that your home has been well cared for. If you can afford it, consider hiring a cleaning service. If not, wash windows and leave them open to air out your rooms. Clean carpeting and drapes to eliminate cooking odors, smoke, and pet smells. Wash light fixtures and baseboards, mop and wax floors, and give your stove and refrigerator a thorough once-over. Pay attention to details, too. Wash fingerprints from light switch plates, clean inside the cabinets, and polish doorknobs. Don't forget to clean your garage, too.
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