Anybody Home? Check the Refrigerator! Seller Tips to Put Your Home’s Best ‘Footing’ Forward
Showing a home this weekend, I heard a comment from a buyer that I haven’t heard in a while: “We want move-in ready and have no tolerance for updating in the first 3-5 years we live there.”
After years of incredibly low inventory, buyers have become accustomed to taking whatever they could find, even if it meant dealing with outdated kitchens or bathrooms. With rental rates soaring, finding a home to purchase—no matter the condition—became a more acceptable option than ever before in my 20+ year career.
However, as the market begins to shift, sellers are also getting the message loud and clear - buyers are again demanding that homes be ready to move into, without needing any work. So, if you’re thinking of selling, it’s time to put your best foot forward by addressing key areas that can make your home truly move-in ready. Set the stage so well that your potential buyers will ask, “Does anyone live here?”
When preparing your home for sale, it's important to tackle the most impactful areas first. Here’s a streamlined list of priorities to help you put your best foot forward in today’s market:
1. Address Deferred Maintenance
Before you even think about the aesthetic details, focus on repairing any glaring issues. A pre-inspection can uncover hidden repairs that buyers’ inspectors will inevitably find. Things like broken window seals, dripping faucets and faulty caulking can raise red flags. Larger issues like HVAC, roofing or structural concerns could be deal-breakers once under contract, so address these ahead of time. This shows buyers that your home has been well-maintained and is ready to move into without surprises.
2. Neutralize the Colors
Bright or bold colors can be a turn-off for many buyers. Neutralize any loud rooms with fresh, soft hues that appeal to a wider audience. A small investment in painting now can pay off by helping buyers envision themselves in the space without the burden of repainting. Neutral tones will also give the house a more polished and updated feel, making it feel move-in ready.
3. De-Personalize Your Space
Buyers want to imagine themselves in your home, not guess at your life story based on family photos. Remove personal items like pictures, diplomas, or anything that can distract from the house itself. A neutral, clean environment lets buyers focus on the property and picture how they could make it their own.
4. Declutter
Decluttering goes hand in hand with de-personalizing. A tidy, organized home is much more appealing than one packed with excess items. Clean out closets, drawers, and storage spaces to give the impression that your home has plenty of storage. Start packing up things you won’t need in the next few weeks—it’ll make moving easier and help show off the space in your home.
5. Make the Front Door Welcoming
Your front door is the first impression buyers will get of your home. While the showing agents are unlocking the lockbox, your potential buyers are looking up, down and all around. Make sure the front door and all around it are clean and cobweb-free. Is your door freshly painted and inviting? Add a new welcome mat and some colorful seasonal flowers in a pot to make the entrance feel warm and welcoming. This small effort will set a positive tone for the rest of the showing.
6. Clean and Update Floors
Floors are one of the first things buyers notice, so ensure they’re in great shape. If your hardwood floors need refinishing or the carpets need cleaning or replacing, now’s the time to do it. Buyers expect move-in ready homes and flooring is a significant part of that expectation. Don’t rely on a “flooring allowance”—buyers want to see floors that are already in good condition.
7. Spruce Up the Landscaping
Outdoor living spaces are in high demand in the Charlotte area and a well-kept yard can make a huge impact on your home buyers. Fresh mulch, seasonal flowers and trimmed hedges can turn your yard into an inviting oasis. Make sure to remove weeds and store any children’s toys or bikes out of sight. A tidy, attractive exterior can boost your home’s curb appeal - and make it stand out to potential buyers.
8. Focus on the Kitchen
The kitchen is the heart of the home and one of the first places buyers look. If your kitchen is outdated, now is the time to make updates—buyers don’t want to take on the expense and effort of renovations. Ensure cabinets, drawers, and countertops are clean and organized and if the space needs work, consider small updates like new hardware or fresh paint on the cabinets. And remember, buyers will open your cabinets, drawers and closets!
9. Clean the Windows
Let the sunshine in! Clean windows and screens can make a huge difference in how fresh and bright your home looks & feels. If you have windows with broken seals, go ahead and replace them. Buyers will notice this and will likely request repairs later, so taking care of it beforehand can help avoid delays or complications.
10. And, If You have One, Don’t Forget the Garage
If your garage is chock-full of boxes, furniture or other clutter, it’s time to clear it out. Buyers want to see that the garage is functional and spacious enough for their cars, not just serving as a storage area for lack of storage/closet space in your home. Whether you clean it up or rent storage space, make sure the garage is ready to show off its full potential.
By addressing these priorities and preparing your home in a way that lets buyers see its full potential, you’ll position yourself for a successful sale. A little effort up front can make a big difference in how quickly your home sells and for the price you’re aiming for. Your home will look so fabulous, your potential buyers will be asking, “Does anyone live here?!”
***Did you know that the best way to tell if someone is still living in the home is to check the refrigerator?!
© Debe Maxwell, CRS | The Maxwell House Group | Savvy + Company | SavvyBroker@me.com | Anybody Home? Check the Refrigerator! Seller Tips to Put Your Home’s Best ‘Footing’ Forward
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