Sensory Appeal Is Just As Important As Curb Appeal

Preparing your home for sale? 

You are not alone. The spring market is upon us and many homeowners are hoping to find a buyer. 

To guarantee you make the best impression on buyers I suggest you keep in mind that "sensory" appeal is just as important as "curb" appeal.

Sight

The visual appearance of a home prompts potential buyers more than any other factor.

Once homeowners step inside, they decide almost immediately whether or not they want to buy your home. It is essential that they be greeted with a spotless, ready-to-move-into home.

Clean or freshly painted walls and spotlessly clean or new carpeting make the best impression. Hardwood floors must be in excellent condition. The best choice for floor tile is a light neutral, in good condition.

Furniture should be arranged to define space and function and at the same time guide the eye towards positive features of the home and away from the negative.

Light is the second most quoted reason for choosing a home.

Make sure all lights work and, where necessary, replace light bulbs with a higher wattage.

Replace dark or worn lampshades with new, sheer or white shades.

Paint walls and dark woodwork in light, neutral paint.

Replace heavy, dark window treatments with lighter sheer curtains.

Clean all windows inside and out so that the sun can shine in.  

Nothing turns away potential buyers faster than unpleasant smells.

Make buyers feel welcome and comfortable by greeting them with a pleasant aroma.

A few drops of vanilla warmed in the oven yields the same result as baked cookies, triggering a comfort response. 

Remove litter boxes.

Keep trash can clean at all times.

Open windows before a showing when possible. 

TOUCH

Texture, added throughout the house, is appealing to the eye and to the touch and will add an element of style which translates into perceived value.

Help buyers feel comfortable and at home by keeping the temperature warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

SOUND

Creaking floors, dripping faucets, and noisy heating systems could be a cause for concern to a buyer.

Neighborhood noises such as traffic and barking dogs can be distracting.

Playing soft jazz or classical music can help make the home feel more relaxing and help buyers to concentrate on the positive features of each room.

 A Buyer's perceived value of your home is based on the reaction of their senses.