(link to Staging: part 1)Now that we have resolved our clutter issues, obvious repairs should also be considered. As much as a clean well-kept and uncluttered room feels good to a buyer so does the feeling that a home has been taken care of and that it won’t be a maintenance nightmare for the buyer. No one wants a 40 item honey do list the day they move in. Here are some tips on things to look for and consider repairing before you put your home on the market.
Plumbing and Fixtures
A simple thing to do is to make sure sink fixtures look shiny and new. If they don't look new after a cleaning, buy new ones. You don't have to buy something fancy, just something simple can be purchased inexpensively and they are pretty easy to install yourself. Just make sure the knobs are easy to turn and the faucets do not leak. If they leak, replace the washers it also pretty simple. Another thing is to make sure your water pressure is good and there are no stains on any of the sink basins.
Ceilings, Walls and Painting
Check your ceilings for water stains, sometimes older leaks leave stains even after the leak has been repaired. If you have a leak, you will need to get it repaired as well, whether it is a plumbing problem or a roof leak. Do the same for the walls, look for not only stains, but also places where dirt has built up and you just haven't noticed. Updating to current colors schemes can be your best investment when trying to sell your home. It's not very expensive and often you can do it yourself. Don't choose colors based on your own taste, but based on what would appeal to the buyers. Your agent can help you with this as well.
Carpet and Flooring
Most of the time carpet just needs a good cleaning. If it appears old and worn, or it is an outdated style or color you should probably replace it, if you do replace it you should do it so with something inexpensive in a pretty neutral color. Make sure to repair or replace broken floor tiles, you don't need to spend a lot of money since you are not fixing up the place for yourself. Remember you are just simply trying to have as few negative impressions on a prospective buyer as possible.
Windows and Doors
Check your windows, make sure they open and close easily. If not, sometimes a spray of WD40 can help. Make sure there are no cracked or broken windowpanes, if there are, it's best to replace them before you begin showing your home. The same thing applies to doors – make sure they open and close as they should and with no creaking. Again, WD40 on the hinges usually takes the creak out. Be sure the doorknobs turn easily, and that they are shiny and new looking. It's all about creating a good impression.
Odor Control
If you smoke, you need to minimize smoking indoors while your home is on the market. Traditional air fresheners just mask the odor, but you can purchase an ozone spray that helps to remove odors without masking it. Pets create odors that you have likely become used to, but are immediately noticeable to buyer with sensitive noses. If you have cats, be sure to empty kitty litter boxes daily and sprinkle with a product in the litter that helps to control odor. If you have larger dogs, keep the dog outdoors as much as possible and whether you have large or small dogs, sprinkle a carpet freshener on the carpet periodically.
Costs of Repairs
Don't do anything expensive, like remodeling. Try to use savings to pay for any repairs and improvements – try not to charge up credit cards or get loans to get your home ready, remember that part of selling is also preparing to buy your next home so you don't want to do anything that will affect your credit scores or hinder you from qualifying for your next mortgage.
Robyn Heathcock
www.irgrealestate.com
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