How to get a home ready to sell
On behalf of Steven Waldinger
When getting ready to sell a home, making small repairs, depersonalizing a space and fixing the curb appeal may make the process easier.
When New York homeowners want to sell a house, they must get the property ready for the market. According to the New York State Association of REALTORS, the median home sales in the state has increased by 10 percent over the course of a year. However, the number of sales closed in a month has dropped by 6.6 percent in that same time frame. With a higher inventory, buyers are able to take their time to find a house that fits their wish list, so sellers need to do their best to market the residential property.
Make minor repairs
A seller may not want to put a lot of money into a house before putting it on the market, but making minor repairs can increase a buyer’s interest. Painting walls a neutral tone is a great first repair to make, but a person wanting to sell a residential property may also want to do the following:
- Fix loose door knobs
- Replace light bulbs
- Remove scuff marks
- Reduce bad smells
Even giving the home a thorough cleaning can help increase the chances of selling it quickly. Homeowners do not have to tackle a major renovation because simply removing dirt and grime can make a property feel more move-in ready.
Remove personal touches
While the homeowner may love his or her family photos and personal knick-knacks, these items can make it harder for a buyer to imagine living in the space. In some cases, a bold piece of furniture may make someone feel like a home does not fit his or her lifestyle. Removing clutter and depersonalizing the living areas creates a blank canvas. Sellers should even replace bold pieces of art and furniture to further create a living space that others can picture themselves in. Removing personal touches helps more people feel comfortable in the house.
Fix up the outside
The outside is the first thing someone will see when searching for a new house. When a person wants to sell a home, he or she needs to make sure it looks good from the first look. Updating the curb appeal of a property can make it easier to sell. Homeowners may want to consider redoing landscaping, fixing damaged siding, cleaning the roofing or painting the front door to increase the visual appeal of the house. Making these small changes ensures buyers will make a positive judgment when first laying eyes on the property.
When a New York resident puts his or her home up for sale, it is important for the seller to do what he or she can to make the house more marketable. No matter what price point the house is at, it may be helpful to work with an attorney familiar with real estate cases.