Wednesday, October 13, 2010

Do you want to sell your house or not?

Okay, let me just start by saying - I know sellers, especially in a short sale situation, don't want to shell out money for repairs or staging.  But you can do some simple things to help sell your home without spending much money by following some simple steps and using some common sense.
I'm writing this in response to showing several properties to a client the other day.  In the first home we were greeted by the owner, who proceeded to walk with us through room by room.  Big NO NO!!  Buyers do not want to see your home with the homeowner walking behind them, because it makes them feel uncomfortable and slows the process of going through the home.  The second issue came when we couldn't even walk in two of the bedrooms, and because it was so cluttered, you couldn't even see the floor.  Buyers want to see Real Estate, not clutter. 
I'm still amazed when I run into these situations, so that leads to wonder, do they want to sell their home or not?   I have listed some tips that require no money, just a little of your time, but well worth it!

1)  Pick up toys or clutter and even remove magnets on the refrigerator.  The less clutter and knickknacks you have lying around, the more potential buyers will be able to see your home and what it offers. Remember, you are selling your house, not your stuff. Plus, getting a head start on packing will eliminate some stress down the road. 

2) If you can prepare for the showing, turn the lights on and open up the curtains and let the light shine in.

3) If your home has some minor repairs that need to be made, do it!  Maybe some rooms just needs a  fresh coat of paint, just keep it neutral.

4) Keep it clean - it doesn't take money to keep your clean and smelling good.  Clean homes sell, trust me!
 
5) If you have pets, especially large ones, take them out of the home for showings.  The last thing a prospective buyer wants is to have a dog being aggressive or greeting them at the door with  a slobbering dog.  
   Bottom line, it doesn't always take money, all it takes is some elbow grease, as my grandmother would say.  So get out the broom and cleaning products and get to it.  You don't want to give them any reason not to put in an offer.

Good luck!

Please take a moment to check out my website: www.traciesellsflorida.com

Tracie Whillock
Contact me:
Call or text (561) 376-0985 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting              (561) 376-0985      end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Email: tracie@traciesellsflorida.com