If you are ready to part with the family home, it is time to find out how to make the process fast and efficient. Maybe the house is damaged, or you just no longer need it. Regardless of the reason, you are probably in the position to offer your property and make them want to say yes. Here are the steps you should take to list your property and have it sold quickly without spending a lot of money.
First Impressions Matter: Nail That Curb Appeal
When you meet someone for the first time, and they come with untidy hair and food on their shirt. Not the best look, right? The same goes for your house. If buyers arrive and see that the garden has not been cut, the paint is peeling, and the porch is collapsing, they will assume that the interior of the house is just as poor.
Begin with the fundamentals. Move the lawn, trim the bushes, and remove any accumulated clutter in the yard. You can also help create a good first impression by painting the front door and placing potted plants by the entrance. If you have some extra cash, you can consider power washing the driveway and changing the outdoor lighting. These small changes you can make to your home will enhance its value and not cost you much money.
And remember: property managers swear by curb appeal. Earnest Homes says they use the secret to attract good tenants, so why shouldn’t it attract buyers?
Fix the Big (and Small) Issues
We all have that one drawer at home that has all the things we don’t know what to do with. You don’t want to live in a house full of those “drawers.” If there is one major problem, it is better to fix it. Leaky faucets, broken tiles, loose cabinet handles – all these small things are a sign of neglect to the buyer.
Of course, some repairs aren’t worth the investment. Replace the kitchen; that is probably a no. However, it is very important to ensure that there are no holes in the wall and that all the doors and windows close properly. It most definitely is! The idea is to make the buyers feel like they are buying into a well-kept house and not a project from a horror movie.
You may not even know what needs to be fixed. A good property manager would know which repairs are worth making and which are not since they make these decisions when getting a rental property ready. According to Landmark Property Management, they do this on a regular basis, and they can give some really valuable insights.
Declutter Like You Mean It
When you walk into a hotel room, you know that feeling that everything is neat, clean, and perfectly arranged. That’s the kind of feeling you want in your home.
Decluttering is not only about making the place look clean and uncluttered; it is about helping the buyer to imagine himself or herself living in the space. If your house is full of your things: family photos, your collection of weird trinkets, or that treadmill that also serves as a place to keep your clothes, it can be difficult for the buyer to see the space as theirs.
Then, it is better to clear each room and put all the unnecessary things in storage. While you’re at it, you should at least try to wash everything. A clean house has a better smell, more space, and is just more appealing.
It also helps to stage the home with a few contemporary, neutral pieces. If that sounds too much work, property managers can tell you the best way to stage a space to make it as appealing as possible to potential occupants. They always do this when they are trying to rent out a unit.
Price It Right (or Kiss Those Offers Goodbye)
Setting the price of an aging home can be complicated. If you price it too high, no one will buy it; if you price it too low, you’ll leave money on the table. The trick? Determine the prices of similar homes around the area.
Consider setting the price just below the significant search filters. If people are searching for homes that are less than $400,000, you should price yours at $399,000 instead of $405,000. People tend to be price-conscious, so they always put prices at $9.99 instead of $10. When you are in the process of selling your home, you should not be too proud to bargain. A low price may speed up the process and bring in the money in the long run.
The Fast-Track Option: The Process of Selling As-Is to a Cash Buyer
Not everyone has the time, patience, or funds to restore an old house. If you are looking for a quick and easy sale, perhaps you should consider selling your home to a cash buyer. Cash buyers, including investors and other companies that purchase homes in their original condition, can close a deal more quickly than other buyers. No waiting for the mortgage approval, no more endless negotiations, and no last-minute complications.
However, knowing your cash buyer before settling for one is always important. Read reviews, request proof of funds, and do not work with anyone who wants to pay for the service upfront. A typical buyer will be open and courteous in his/her dealings.
Make It Feel Like Home But Not Too Much Like Your Home
Last but not least, buyers aren’t looking for a house, they are looking for a home. Some details can make a big difference. Soft lighting cut flowers, and a good smell (e.g., a fresh-baked cookie or light citrus scent) will help create a welcoming atmosphere in the house.
But don’t overdo it. Strongly scented air fresheners or attempting to create ‘art’ with too many props will be counterproductive. Simplicity is always the best approach.
Final Thoughts
You do not have to struggle when trying to find the right buyers; you just need to know what to do. Improve the curb appeal, make necessary repairs, declutter the space, and set the price appropriately. If you have a time constraint, you should consider trading your home to a cash buyer for a quick closure.
If you need help, then property managers can come in handy. They know how to transform homes to be suitable for leasing and buying, so they can give you valuable tips on preparing your house for the market. So, put on your game face and get that house sold! Your next adventure is out there!